Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

My officials discussed the matter this morning and we understand the association may have articulated the difficulties outlined by the Deputy; we will facilitate a meeting to work through a proper system. There has always been a specific allowance for health care because it was an area identified repeatedly, along with IT and construction professionals, as having skills shortages.

This must be balanced with ensuring there is no exploitation and there is proper policing of rights. We can achieve that balance, and we have dealt with other sectors. The €30,000 limit can be a bit high if one considers initial trainees in some instances but we are flexible in facilitating measures for a genuine need, without in any way compromising basic and proper standards in accordance with our labour laws.

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