Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 110: To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of applications for work permits received by his Department in each of the past three years to date in 2012; the numbers granted and or refused in each of the years in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34265/12]

Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)
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I have set out the details sought by the Deputy in a table hereunder.

The Deputy will note that in 2011, the most recent complete year for which statistics are available, my Department received 6,408 applications for renewals of permits and new employment permits and that permits issued in respect of 5,200, or 81% of these cases. 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. 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.

The Employment Permit structures and procedures have been designed and maintained to protect the Irish labour market while ensuring that key specific skills are available that will enable the Irish economy to expand and develop.