Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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47. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to when any announcements might be made in relation to working visas to Canada; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8402/14]

Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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The arrangements for a Working Holiday Programme which enables Irish citizens to work in Canada are outlined in a Memorandum of Understanding which was agreed between Ireland and Canada in 2003 and amended in 2012.

Negotiations on a second amendment to the Working Holiday Programme are at an advanced stage and the main elements have been agreed in principle with Canada. The exact language is being finalised and I expect that both sides will be in a position to sign in the very near future. A joint announcement with Canada will be made following signature.

This amendment will improve access for Irish citizens to avail of this programme and reflects the strongly positive relationship between Ireland and Canada.