8th April 2003

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Morgan seeks clarification on work permits issue

In the Dáil today, Sinn Fein Spokesperson on Trade and Employment, Arthur Morgan TD, raised the issue of the arbitrary decision by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, together with FÁS, to proclaim a number of occupational categories, including childcare workers and tourism and catering workers ineligible for work permits.

Deputy Morgan said:

"The decision to proclaim a number of occupational categories as ineligible for work permits was taken without consulting the social partners on the status of the labour market. This has caused unease among employers and employees. Such decisions should only be taken following a full consultation. The analysis of the jobs market as carried out by FÁS and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment must be published in the interest of openness and transparency. Guidelines for recruitment in sectors where there are shortages of workers should also be published."

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