Willie Penrose (Longford-Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 292: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason his Department is holding up the issue of work in Ireland visas administered through the work in Ireland programme via USIT; the reason the necessary regulations have not been put into effect by his Department to enable this type of working holiday visa for applicants to be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35512/07]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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The Government recognises the value of international work and travel programmes for students. They contribute to the development of lasting links with other countries and provide valuable experience for students themselves. At the same time, it is essential that any such programmes be compatible with Ireland's existing employment permit and immigration legislation.

My Department, in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Justice, Equality and Law Reform, has been in consultation with USIT in relation to the operation of the Work in Ireland programmes and I understand that discussions are in the final stages, with a view to new arrangements being in operation shortly.