Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will try to address the points raised and speak specifically to the amendments in the names of Deputies O'Reilly and Nash. We are discussing seasonal employment permits. The first thing to point out is that Ireland is an outlier internationally in not having them at this stage. We are one of few European Union countries, if not the only one, without them. We believe introducing them is a good thing.

I understand the concerns of the Deputies which they also raised on Committee Stage. I would like to provide some clarification on what we have planned. I appreciate that this will still not convince some, as has been laid out. I accept there is just a difference of opinion on that. My officials and I have engaged extensively with all of the groups listed by Deputies O'Reilly and Nash. I think representatives from the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland have joined us in the Gallery. We started a bit earlier than intended.

The plan with seasonal work permits is to introduce a rights-based pilot scheme, which will be designed. It will only be available from the outset to the horticultural sector. The pilot will be monitored and evaluated. It will be limited to a very small number of workers. The findings of the pilot scheme will decide how we continue this, for which sectors and what duration, going forward. It allows us to start the process on a narrow basis. I laid out the areas of accommodation and the provision of equipment, tools and health insurance and how important they are. We have provided extra resources to the WRC and other bodies concerning inspections. We expect them to play a proactive role in this matter. We will work hand in hand with the advocacy bodies mentioned, with which we already work quite closely, as well as trade unions and other sectors.

There were a number of other points raised. They are grouped amendments.

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