Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

A few years ago, the Government very successfully gave a Minister of State, Deputy Brian Lenihan, responsibility for children. The Department of Health and Children has effectively tackled the issue of children by bringing together various strands from the Departments of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Health and Children and Education and Science.

We read every week about migrant workers being abused by cowboy employers. I would like a debate on the notion of a one-stop-shop whereby a Minister of State would deal with migration. The various strands, from visas to work permits to education, could be brought under a single umbrella, and people coming to our shores would no longer live on the shadowy margins of society but be properly informed of their rights and know where to go. Instead of turning to various Departments, they would have a one-stop-shop.