Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

The last point made by Deputy Pringle is certainly on the money. The Minister of State has nothing to fear from agreeing with the amendment if he is confident everything will be processed so quickly from now on. If there is meant to be quick processing but not enough resources are put in, there is a fear that it might be more difficult to get a fair hearing. There should not be a serious argument against this amendment if the Government is intent on processing everything in six months. Most people, including the Minister of State, would agree that it is fair to say that the people in direct provision have not been treated like normal human beings. Not allowing them to work shortly after their application, and being crucified as a result, is grossly unfair and impossible for any State to defend.

The inhuman way some of these people have been treated is directly related to the fact that we have not allowed them into society for one reason or another at an early stage while the application was being processed. If the failure is on the State's side because it has not been able to process the application quickly enough, allowing the people to work is a no-brainer. It makes sense all around in terms of human rights and treating people with dignity. Anybody on the island of Ireland who is fit to work should have the opportunity to look for a job. As Deputy Pringle has stated, given the Minister of State's confidence in how everything will be processed so quickly from now on, this amendment would not interfere in the Government's thought process.

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