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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 10 Dec 2002

Vol. 559 No. 1

Written Answers. - Work Permits.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

143 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the difficulties being experienced by migrant workers under the Government work permit schemes, particularly where they wish to change employers; and her views on whether the present system favours a climate where employers can exploit these vulnerable workers who are in most cases without union protection. [25486/02]

My Department has facilitated and continues to facilitate numerous non-EEA workers who have chosen to move jobs. Our records show that some 2,600 non-EEA workers, in respect of whom work permits had been issued, changed employer last year and the figure is likely to be higher this year.

The labour inspectorate of my Department is responsible for monitoring the employment conditions of the various categories of all workers in Ireland, including immigrant workers. The inspectorate pursues allegations of worker mistreatment and in the event that evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found the inspectorate seeks redress for the individuals concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. The inspectorate operates objectively, fairly, impartially and without any differentiation with respect to nationality.

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