Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 341: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason that approvals for work permits in respect of forestry employees is difficult and slow; the consequent impact on business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8949/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

It is Government policy that employers should be able to source their workforce needs from within the European Economic Area, except in cases where high levels of skills and qualifications are required for the job and such skills are not available within this area. Work permit applications in respect of forestry workers would be refused on the grounds that they are not highly skilled and highly paid.