Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would expect that any changes on this will be much quicker than those in respect of any of the other aspects I referred to. The more medium-term changes will take about 18 months and they will certainly make us more attractive, even for others who come without spouses or partners, but the longer term objective involves the combining of two systems, which will take a little longer. My Department and the Department of enterprise are absolutely committed to that and it is the first hurdle to pass. Everybody wants to get this done.

I will write to the Deputy and outline the obstacles. I do not think significant changes will be required but there may need to be new legislation. We need a vehicle and we need to do it as quickly as possible, but the work is under way. I would like it to be changed, and while I have to wait for the review, I will certainly keep the Deputy updated on it and reply to him directly.

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