Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

We are happy that Bulgaria and Romania will join the EU on 1 January 2007. Many of my colleagues, including the Taoiseach, have been cautious on the issue of labour market access and the Government will make its decision on this before the end of the year, after consulting with the social partners. I note the cautious comments made by the ESRI. The Taoiseach and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment have suggested that Ireland may seek to adopt a different approach and introduce a work permit scheme for workers from Bulgaria and Romania, although such a decision will not be made until December. I accept the Deputy's points. We have a booming economy, we warmly welcome workers from accession countries but the Government will be cautious regarding Bulgaria and Romania.

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