The position in relation to long term residency is as follows: Persons who have been legally resident in the State for over five years on the basis of work permit/work authorisation/work visa conditions may apply to the Immigration Division of my Department for a five year residency extension. In that context they may also apply to be exempt from employment permit requirements.
The Immigration Division of my Department received an application for long term residency in July 2006 in relation to the individual referred to in the Deputy's question and will be in touch shortly with the person concerned.