Vol. 521 No. 1
41 Mr. Bell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress of her discussions with other Departments on the introduction of a scheme which will allow certain non-EU nationals with particular skills to apply for work visas; and when she expects to have the scheme in place. [16496/00]
I recently announced details of a new labour market immigration policy designed to meet the skills require ments in the Irish economy over the next six years. To facilitate the recruitment of suitably qualified people from non-EEA countries for designated sectors of the employment market where skill shortages are particularly acute, a working visa and work authorisation scheme has been introduced. This makes it possible for prospective employees with job offers from employers in Ireland to obtain immigration and employment clearance in advance from Irish embassies and consulates. The new scheme does not replace but is a faster alternative to the work permit procedure which continues to be available to employers in Ireland.
I am informed by the Department of Foreign Affairs, which has administrative responsibility for the embassies and consulates, that a number of working visas have already been issued on behalf of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment under the new scheme. Detailed data on the volume of visas issued will be available over the coming months.
