Vol. 487 No. 2
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the correct procedure to be followed by an Australian national who wishes to come to Ireland with his Irish girlfriend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3692/98]
It is understood from the Deputy's office that the person in question wishes to come to Ireland to work. Australian nationals who wish to come to Ireland to take up employment are required to be in possession of a valid work permit. The person should, on entry to the State, be able to satisfy an immigration officer that he is coming here for a bona fide purpose. In this regard, he may be required to produce evidence, including the work permit, to the immigration officer. The grounds on which a person may be refused entry to the State are set out in article 5 (2) of the Aliens Order 1946 as amended by article 3 of the Aliens (Amendment) Order 1975. In the event that a work permit is issued, the person concerned is then required to obtain permission to reside in the State, by applying to the nearest Garda superintendent's office.
The issue of a work permit is a matter for my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Harney.
