Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The green card we will introduce as part of the work permits system will facilitate high-skilled labour and will better streamline it. I accept the procedures must be streamlined to facilitate inter-company transfer, which will be statutorily facilitated in the Act. We will introduce regulations to commence it in the new year. The green card and work permit systems will focus on higher skills.

A number of US companies continue to locate here. Although we experience fast growth, the skills issue will be managed through a combination of investment, education and migration. Other issues such as broadband and energy, which was mentioned by the Deputy, must be addressed.

See this speech in context