Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I recognise the work of the Minister of State on this issue. I refer to the changes and reviews. He is a very hands-on Minister of State. I recall him facilitating a workshop with members of the Shannon Chamber of Commerce several months ago. It was very informative for the businesses that engage in the context of the work permit issue. A particular issue, however, is emerging regarding recruitment for our nursing homes sector. Basically, there is a shortage of healthcare workers in Ireland and throughout the EU. We must streamline this process.

To give an example, some of these people get their work permits, but then they must wait for the critical skills permit to come on stream after that and it may take several months to happen. Those people may also have to wait for an entry visa. More co-ordination is needed between the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, the Department of Justice and others to ensure this process can be streamlined.

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