Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Senator makes an important point. While I do not have plans to extend the period for which the permission issues, I would be keen to have a proper and adequate flow of information for Senator Lombard, other Senators and the Cathaoirleach - having regard to his part of the country - in order that they do not experience the circumstances outlined, namely, not knowing who is dealing with a particular aspect of the scheme. I assure Senators of my assistance and support in that regard should the need arise.

The scheme is focused on ensuring that both the employment and human rights of migrant seafarers are fully protected and enforced to the highest degree through the combined work of all the appropriate agencies of the State. Different agencies and Departments have ongoing responsibility in this regard. It is the firm view of the oversight committee that if the scheme were to be suspended or abolished, non-EEA seafarers would be in a far more precarious situation. In such circumstances they would be open to a greater risk of exploitation. It would be remiss of me not to mention that a legal action is currently under way regarding the atypical scheme for crew members. The interdepartmental task force remains open to working with all the stakeholders to improve, develop and enhance the scheme where appropriate. My Department will continue to work with all the statutory agencies to ensure that those employed in the industry and their employers are in compliance with the regulations for employment in the fishing industry and with the general employment laws of the State.