It is important that the situation is constantly monitored and that controls be put in place during and after the transitional period from the first day of accession in May 2004. The changing profile of the Irish labour force in recent years, with an increased presence not only of EU workers but also of migrant workers from outside the Union, has been necessitated by our changing economic profile. These people have brought a range of skills and strengths that have added greatly to our overall well-being.