I am aware of the concerns expressed by the organisation named and welcome their ongoing and valuable input into my Department's work on economic migration policies. Indeed, input received from the organisation during a consultation process on proposed changes was incorporated into the final policy decisions.
Ireland has benefited greatly from immigration. However, we need to be sure that our economic migration policies are adapted to reflect the changed realities of the Irish labour market. As a result, it is essential that we now take steps to ensure that every possible effort is made by employers to find suitably skilled employees from within the existing labour market. Initiatives such as strengthening the labour market needs test will facilitate this process.