Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 66: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the proposals from a group (details supplied) for the introduction of a bridging visa for a short period for migrants from outside the EU who have entered Ireland lawfully but have become undocumented for reasons beyond their control; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34541/07]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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I have no proposals to introduce any general regularisation programme for undocumented migrant workers in the State. Each case must be considered on its individual merits and this approach is being followed in respect of those brought to the attention of the immigration authorities where the migrant has become undocumented after previously holding a work permit. Depending on the circumstances of the case the individual may be permitted to remain on in the State for the purposes of seeking a new work permit and granted a short term residence permit to enable them to do so.

The introduction of temporary permits or bridging visas without a proper examination of the circumstances of each case would amount to a general regularisation for persons who do not have permission to be in the State. Such regularisations are highly problematic and carry the danger of creating a pull factor for illegal migration. I am aware of the proposal referred to by the Deputy. My understanding is that it would not differ radically in its contents from what is happening in practice for persons who formerly held employment permits, particularly with regard to adopting a case by case approach. In general, if a person who is illegally in Ireland wishes to regularise his or her position, he or she should leave the State voluntarily and seek to return through the legal channels.