Arthur Morgan (Louth, Sinn Fein)

Some of the points I wished to raise have been covered by Deputy Howlin so I will not repeat them. Any worker should be entitled to apply for and hold an employment permit. That does not take away from advertising and other issues that do not arise in this respect. The advertising and recruitment process can still occur, after which the worker can apply for a permit. It should be as straightforward as that. I am somewhat concerned by the conservatism in refusing to accept this amendment. I am trying to locate where that conservatism is based but I suspect it does not emanate from the Minister of State himself. Either way, it is unfortunate and unnecessary.

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