Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 200: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he has examined the proposals of an organisation (details supplied) to create special technology visas for skilled workers in the ICT sector to make it easier for them to work and live here, and lead to the creation of 20,000 further jobs; his views on this proposal; if he will promote such a visa to the Department of Justice and Equality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33311/12]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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Ireland remains a very open and welcoming country for non-Irish nationals in our Labour Force. Quarter 1 2012 labour market statistics show there are 274,000 non-Irish nationals in our labour force of just over 2 million. Ireland remains a very attractive location for Foreign Direct Investment. Favourable demographics and consistent investment in education ensure a plentiful supply of highly qualified workers with excellent technical, language and customer services capabilities, as well as a reputation for flexibility and innovation. In addition, Irish employers have access to the EU and EEA labour force in accordance with EU law on freedom of movement or Accession Treaties.

I would advise the Deputy that for specified highly skilled and strategically important occupations, where a skills shortage exists, Green Card employment permits may be issued. ICT professionals, professional engineers and technologists are specifically catered for under this scheme. The Green Card permit is issued to the employee and allows his or her employment in the State by the named employer in the occupation specified on the permit. It may be issued for a period of two years. The employee may apply for immediate family re-unification and an application for long-term residence may be made after two years. No labour market needs test (e.g. newspaper and FÁS/EURES advertising) is required prior to making an application. Sensibly, it is a requirement that no more than 50% of staff employed by a company in Ireland may be employment permits holders.

In addition my officials advise me that in 2011 we received 6408 new applications for permits of all kinds and that new permits issued in respect of 5200, or 81% of these cases. Notwithstanding this the Employment Permit structure and procedure has been designed and maintained to ensure that it is responsive to Irish labour market conditions while ensuring that key specific skills are available to ensure that the Irish economy expands and develops.