Ruth Coppinger (Dublin West, Solidarity)

I am surprised to hear the review is still under way. People have made submissions. Unite trade union is now organising these workers. This is very positive because migrant workers have not traditionally been able to participate in the trade union movement. It is very difficult and scary for somebody working in a private nursing home to put their head above the parapet. These workers staged a demonstration at the Dáil last year. Again, that was historic as it was unusual to have workers coming from all around the country. It would break your heart to hear the stories they have told us. This will not be a cost to the State. That is highly important. These workers are living here. They have houses. They have homes and accommodation. If their spouses come over, it is not that they will be getting social welfare or anything like that. They will be able to work or organise childcare, whichever the case may be. The Migrant Rights Centre Ireland made a submission and the point on this is that granting immediate family reunion rights to all GEP holders is not a burden financially on the State. It stated the permit holders will continue to generate income to the State and that the net income of the State would increase substantially with full family reunion rights. Therefore, any idea of pandering to racism or anything else is not justified whatsoever. The other key point is that we have to examine the type of care system we want. The care system should be run by the public and the State system and not for profit. This ensures we get the best care but also that workers who work in the system are guaranteed their employment rights and are treated fairly. This has to be reviewed and this review has to speed up so that these workers are not left continuing to suffer.

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