Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)
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Question 67: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures she will take to address the plight of migrant workers who find that they are illegal through no fault of their own; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13859/04]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The question of the immigration status of workers from overseas is primarily one for my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. To the extent that work permits are an issue, experience has shown that each case must be considered on its own merits. Some employees have undoubtedly been misled by unscrupulous employers and my Department has generally been able to adapt a flexible and constructive approach. However, some employees are also capable of portraying themselves as victims when it suits them, for example when persons come for a holiday and simply stay on with every intention of working, regardless of whether they have permission to work. I assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to judge each case in light of the available evidence.