James Bannon (Fine Gael)

This is acknowledged throughout Europe and by the applicant states. I predict that in the not too distant future it will also be acknowledged by the Irish electorate who will dump the current Government and hopefully replace it with a Fine Gael-led Administration.

As a country that saw unprecedented emigration in the not too distant past, people here are familiar with the notion of working outside their own country. We should have a positive attitude to a free access policy within Europe. However, without the ability to foretell future growth or decline, it is imperative to put measures in place to protect our workforce. Work permits must be reintroduced if circumstances change.

I welcome the Bill. It is not often I compliment an Opposition Minister for bringing a Bill before the House.