Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)

I welcome the amendment which ensures that this House will, from day one, allow full access to nationals of Bulgaria and Romania when they accede to the EU. The Government has already done so and we have praised the Government for the stance it has taken. It is a pity the same stance was not taken by other member states. Only six countries allow full access but all 25 should and, upon the accession of Bulgaria and Romania, all 27 should do so. There should not be two tiers in the European Union. I welcome the foresight shown by the Minister but it would have been preferable if the Government had taken a decision to allow this from the date of accession. However, it has not done so but said it would consider the matter. It is regrettable that the decision on Bulgaria and Romania joining the EU has been kicked into touch for a further number of months. Otherwise on 1 January, all 27 nations in the EU would enjoy full rights from day one, provided they complied with the rules of the EU. When Greece, Spain and Portugal joined the EU similar restrictions were imposed but were lifted within two years because the excuses made at the time for blocking free access to the labour market did not materialise. I welcome the change in that regard.

On the Bill in general, it is a pity that employment permits continue to be granted to employers rather than employees.

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