Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)

Does the Government intend to ratify the convention on the rights of all migrant workers and their families? I ask because in its absence children of people who have been granted residency are being forced by the Department of Education and Science to apply on a case by case basis for their rights to third level education and grants. Although the Department has established that as a category they are entitled, each case is individually pursued through the equality section of the Department.

This is a fundamental rights matter. Does the Government ever intend to ratify the convention on the rights of all migrant workers and their families? If so, when does it propose to do so? Has this issue been requested of the Government in its meeting with the social partners?

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