Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)

Why have the work permit and green card schemes not been reviewed since 2006? Although we have had a dramatic shift in economic circumstances we are only now reviewing the conditions for those schemes. While I accept that the number of work permits issued over the last seven months has decreased — a figure of 1,100 is significantly down on the previous period — the issue is not only the figures but of perception. The Government needs to be seen to be on top of the issue. Is there any plan to introduce a labour market test for the green card? Have any discussions taken place with the Minister of State with responsibility for integration policy, Deputy Conor Lenihan?

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