Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

Yes. Senator Quinn made a good point. If an employer unknowingly employed a person on the basis of a good quality hoax permit, he would have a good defence. The Government and the Department are not seeking to trap employers. The section amounts to a stark warning to employers not to employ people without proper permits. It is vital these restrictions are enforced. Otherwise we can throw out the Bill and abandon efforts to enforce legislation on permits. While I accept the maximum fine of €250,000 is high, I support it.