Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

-----but has indicated a clear understanding of why it is important. I spoke a little about the integration piece as regards financial independence and all those issues, but it is also from the straightforward perspective of family unification. We do not want a situation where one partner has to go abroad to work and has to leave his or her family behind. That is even more of a danger. Ireland has its own history of that in respect of seasonal employment, which brings its own questions and fears. Many in Ireland know the very negative impact of having to travel seasonally to Scotland and other parts of the world had on generations here.

I believe this issue is part of the Minister of State's area and remit. While it might not be seen as part of the Bill, I urge her to actively engage with it. Employment permits are a key element in that architecture around how all families are treated in Ireland. I will monitor the Minister of State's actions with interest. While she may not believe the amendment is appropriate to this legislation, the issue is absolutely part of her remit.