Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 July 2004
40 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the details of any new scheme for work visas for skilled workers outside the EU; the categories and the countries which will be eligible under this scheme; if she has plans to amend the existing scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19885/04]
View answerWhile I do not at this stage see a need for any new scheme, my Department is closely monitoring labour market developments following EU enlargement. Depending on our experience of the enlarged labour market and an assessment of our future skills needs, I will be prepared to consider if a more formal programme of permanent migration for highly qualified personnel from outside the European Economic Area is necessary.
A working group set up under Sustaining Progress, including representatives of employer bodies and unions, recently concluded that such a programme is not necessary at this time. I will be guided by the emerging evidence from the labour market. Both the working visa/work authorisation and work permit facilities continue to be available for such higher skilled recruitment needs as cannot be satisfied within the enlarged EU.
