Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 8 July 2009
307 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 285 of 23 June 2009, his plans to review the conditions for stamp 2A students; when he will have completed the review; the type of educational establishments referred to which have damaged the reputation of the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28247/09]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I have previously indicated, my Department is currently engaged in a review of the immigration regime for full time non-EEA students. The purpose of the review is two fold. First, there is a need for greater coherence in the way we deal with non-EEA students via a transparent system that is consistent with Irish immigration policy generally. Secondly, it is generally accepted that there is a need for greater regulation in the student area.
The review does not concentrate on specific immigration stamps but rather on the regime for students as a whole. It is a question of establishing the policy first and then seeing what stamps are appropriate for its implementation rather than reviewing the conditions for Stamp 2A holders.
The provision of educational services to non-Irish nationals is an important niche of the Irish economy with considerable growth potential. At the same time it must be recognised that immigration permission is a hugely valuable commodity, particularly when it carries with it a right to work. The sort of establishments which cause a problem, and these are a minority, are those whose primary purpose is to act as a procedural device or vehicle for students to enter the labour market as opposed to the delivery of a quality educational service.
It is anticipated that the internal aspect of the review will be completed shortly. Ultimately it is envisaged that all relevant stakeholders will be afforded the opportunity to make submissions on the draft proposals and on student immigration issues more generally before any final proposals are settled.
