The Government decision of 26 July 1999 allows asylum seekers who had arrived in the country before that date to seek employment as their application for asylum crossed the 12 month threshold. There are no plans to change that decision at this time. Some 4,000 are now entitled to seek work.
FÁS has established a dedicated unit to assist eligible asylum seekers to find employment and has been conducting skills audits at centres in both Tallaght and Blanchardstown with very positive results. The process used is a series of structured interviews, the aim of which is to establish a profile of the education and employment history of the asylum seeker. During the interview process, a range of assessments are used to determine levels of technical-language skills. This provides each individual with the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and abilities. The outcome of the interviews and skills assessments are used to ascertain the type of work each individual is best suited to within the Irish jobs market.
Asylum seekers who have been granted the entitlement to seek employment are eligible for training and education supports. The FÁS asylum seekers unit has introduced a three week intensive English language training programme which is followed by a seven week access to employment programme which focuses on orientation to the labour market in Ireland and includes English language training and IT training modules. To date, approximately 800 people have attended the units.
The Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs has provided that asylum seekers who gain employment may retain the rent allowance granted to them so that its loss may not be a possible disincentive. The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has recently initiated a campaign against racism in the country and in the workplace.
With regard to economic immigration, my Department has issued more than 11,580 work permits this year in respect of employees from 115 different countries from outside European economic area.
My officials and I will keep the situation under review.
Question No. 57 taken with Question No. 49.
Question No. 58 taken with Question No. 11.
