Breeda Moynihan-Cronin (Kerry South, Labour)
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Question 89: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the promised legislation to put the employment permit regime on a comprehensive and sound statutory footing will be published; the reason for the delay in bringing forward the legislation, which was originally promised for early 2003; if he will confirm that it is intended to replace the current work permit system with a green card system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18019/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The employment permits Bill is in the final stage of drafting. The intention is to have the Bill published before the summer recess. The preparation of the Bill has taken longer than expected because of the change in labour market circumstances due to the enlargement of the European Union.

The proposed employment permits Bill, which will govern the issue of employment permits for nationals from outside the European Economic Area, will: put the existing administrative arrangements on a sound legislative footing; facilitate the issue of employment permits of extended or indefinite duration, analogous to a green card-type system, where the workers in question are critical to meeting Ireland's skill and employment needs; and provide additional protections for migrant workers.