Seanad debates

Thursday, 27 March 2003

Employment Permits Bill 2003: Second Stage.

 

It makes sense to establish a right of entry for new citizens of the European Union from the date they join. This move will benefit Ireland. There will be more referendums and if we are to win them, we must point out the benefits. I was an illegal worker in Europe in the 1950s. I do not think young people recognise the benefits we get from the European Union. We must, therefore, take every opportunity to declare them. Such a privilege is likely to be of greatest benefit to the new countries in the early years before they have an opportunity to build their economies to the point where they can provide full employment for their citizens. I welcome the legislation from that point of view. I also welcome it because it makes good economic sense to have a united Europe with free movement of labour.

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