Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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Question 143: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to include accountants in the list of approved professions for work visas; if so, the time scale for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16672/06]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I do not intend to extend the working visa/work authorisation scheme at this stage.

In my opening address on the Second Stage of the Employment Permits Bill 2005 on 12th October 2005 I announced that the current procedures for granting working visas / work authorisations will be phased out and replaced by a new Green Card system. As I indicated on that occasion, Green Cards will be awarded for occupations where there are skills shortages, which will be for a restricted list of occupations in the annual salary range from €30,000 to €60,000 and for a more extensive list of occupations in the annual salary range above €60,000. Green Cards will be issued for two years initially, with the possibility of permanent or long-term residence after that. It is intended to introduce these arrangements and the occupations to which they will apply later this year.