Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)

The latter statement from the Minister is the most important one, that is, that the response should not be to exclude people because there is a definite need and a requirement for people to come, but to regulate properly. That really is the nub of my question; how are we going to regulate properly? Will the Minister indicate how it will happen in the short term? Negotiating with the social partners is one thing.

I welcome the Minister's indication that he will meet with the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland in regard to the work permits Bill, but will he specifically meet the Domestic Workers Support Group, which is a subsidiary of the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland, to hear the specific difficulties it has? Perhaps it could help in finding a solution in regard to this matter.

What is the extent of the Know Before You Go campaign? In what countries does it operate to give clear information? I spoke to a Polish national at the weekend who said Poles ring her all the time and they are unaware of their rights or entitlements. Poles are the most populous group of immigrant workers here so countries that would not be represented in such great numbers would be less likely to have access to that information. I hope the Minister will use the embassies to ensure people come equipped with information.

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