Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State is very welcome back to the House this afternoon. Fianna Fáil very much welcomes this motion on the opt-in to the proposal for a regulation establishing an EU talent pool. We are no different from other EU states in that we have many vacancies across many different occupations. I sometimes think the Government does not get enough credit for the prudent management of the economy, which has led to approximately 2.7 million people being in employment. We effectively have full employment.

The Government deserves great credit for that. The reality is that anybody in this country who wants a job can get one. Our problem now is that job creation has grown to such a level that we do not have a sufficient talent pool within the confines of this island to fill the number of vacancies we have. Such a measure, as outlined by the Minister of State, would appear on its face to be a very worthwhile exercise. Having a central database of particular professions that could be advertised with a view to managing those with relevant qualified individuals from outside of this jurisdiction is a good proposal.

The Minister of State mentioned a number of occupations in his contribution. Are any occupations prohibited from being advertised on the portal? Are all occupations and vacancies that may exist included or are there limitations? Some professions find it difficult to fill vacancies, in terms of professional capacity. In my county, Monaghan, there are vacancies in the agricultural sector. Despite employers advertising locally in local publications, portals and what have you, they find it difficult to find employees to come forward. I am thinking in particular of the poultry sector and the mushroom industry which are experiencing difficulties in getting workers. A mechanism such as this would seem to match those seeking employment with those who are looking for workers. It seems to be a good idea.

In the opinion of the Minister of State, what is the advantage of us going down this road rather than what we currently have? He might outline the main advantages of the proposal. On the face of it, it seems to make common sense. On behalf of our party, I would be delighted to support the motion and move it onto the next stage.