Mr. Martin:

The problem with amendments Nos. 15 and 16 is that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, and not me, is responsible for naturalisation and immigration law. However, I can inform the Senator and the House that this legislation will dovetail with legislation that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform will introduce on immigration generally. We are working in concert in that regard.

Mr. Martin:

The legislation will also facilitate holders of green cards in particular to enjoy immediate family reunification. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has stated that a fair number of work permit applicants will also have that provision. There are several qualifications, one relating to whether one earns above or below the family income threshold. If one earns less than that, a longer period of three years applies before there can be family reunification.

Mr. Martin:

We have made significant progress on the issue. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has already announced that, but I am not able to accept the amendments in the context of this Bill, since they are outside my legislative domain.