Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 205: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the proposal by the Migrant Rights Centre for a bridging visa in order that migrant workers do not become undocumented if their employers fail to comply with work permit requirements; his plans to introduce such a visa or similar protection for these workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23073/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Deputy will, of course, be aware that the question of the enforcement of employment permits legislation is a matter for my colleague, Minister Micheál Martin and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. With regard to residence permits, all non-EEA nationals wishing to remain in the State beyond the period of time granted by an Immigration Officer at the point of entry must report to the local registration office in the area where they are residing in order to register and obtain the appropriate permission to remain. A notice to this effect is handed to each non-EEA national arriving in the State for any purpose other than a short visit.

I would point out that all non-EEA nationals are legally obliged under the Immigration Act 2004 to ensure that their permission to remain in the State is kept up to date at all times. Indeed, it is their responsibility to make themselves aware of relevant Irish Immigration legislation prior to their entry to the State. This is in line with all other major European countries and with international practice.