Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Question 509: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if there is a section within his Department familiar with a work exchange programme (details supplied); if so, the rules that apply to such; the number of staff members in this section; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11400/08]

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. My Department, in cooperation with the Departments of Foreign Affairs and Justice, Equality and Law Reform, has been in consultation with USIT in relation to implementing new procedures for the operation of its Work In Ireland programmes to ensure the continuation of these programmes, as appropriate, in a way that benefits young Irish people and young people from those other countries to which these arrangements apply. Finalized new procedures were issued to USIT on 17 December by the Department of Foreign Affairs, which liaises with USIT regarding the operation of the programmes. I understand from that Department that applications to USIT for Summer 2008 travel and work programmes have recently begun and that no procedural difficulties have been indicated.