Seanad debates
Thursday, 6 November 2003
European Communities (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.
One of the issues which immediately arises for Ireland is that of workers from EU accession states working here. I broadly support the approach the Government has taken on this issue. It was correct to allow workers from those states to work here from 1 May. The Government has also entered a reservation that it will keep a close eye on the labour market and may change its view, although it will find it difficult to do so. However, what are the implications for workers who originate in the accession states and are already here? The courts have already handed down deportation orders, for example, a Czech Romany, was recently deported. It seems sensible to stop this now because such people will be entitled to be here from 1 May next year. The legal authorities should take a pragmatic view, rather than pursuing people who are technically illegal immigrants given that, in a matter of months, they will be entitled to be here. Will the Minister of State elaborate on the Government's position?
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