Annie Hoey (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses. I was watching proceedings on the monitor and I said I would come down. It is nice to be in the committee room and not running around the place.

I wanted to ask about transportation infrastructure because it is such a key area. I know we are talking about getting tourists into areas, but even as part of moving to a green economy, transport is an issue for staff, including seasonal staff, getting from one place to the other. I know a lot of people in rural areas who have to drive to work. There is no question about that. They are all driving to work. As we are part of the global transition to a green economy, there are multiple elements to the issue of rural transport. However, I will not ask the same question twice.

There was talk about the people who are seeking asylum and the diversification of the accommodation they need. I know there has been a campaign by a number of people to reduce the requirement to be here for six months to be able to work to three months. It is very important that people who are living in communities, whether they are there for six weeks, a year, two years, or whatever it is, are able to be a part of that community. Has that come across the radar of any of the witnesses in respect of work permits? If it was reduced to three months, would it be useful for the tourism landscape? Those people are living in communities, who might be able to contribute, through seasonal employment or in another way. Has that come across the desks of any of the witnesses? I am not asking them to make a policy decision. I am campaigning for a reduction on the requirement, but I just wonder whether it has appeared.