Migrant workers 'vital to economy'

DELEGATES at the ISME annual conference were told of the critical importance of migrant workers to the Irish economy at the annual conference of ISME, the independent small business organisation.

Chairman Robert Berney said the increasing importance of and reliance on migrant labour was something not fully grasped by the authorities.

Since 1996, 200,000 immigrant workers have entered the State, or 6% of our total population.

At present growth rates and taking demographics into account, the country would need a further 20,000 immigrant workers a year over the next number of years to fill the vacancies that will arise.

"The construction, catering and food processing sectors together with the hospitality sector are almost completely reliant on immigrant labour in order to stay in business," he said.

"It is absolutely essential therefore that these individuals, together with those already in the country, are treated with the dignity and respect that they deserve and afforded the same rights and opportunities available to Irish employees in order to benefit from their significant contribution to our economy."

While the vast majority of migrant workers enjoy good working conditions akin to Irish employees, there is evidence, albeit in a limited number of cases, that migrants are not being afforded the same opportunities or conditions of employment as other employees, he said.

"As an association, ISME condemned abuse of immigrant workers and plays its part in ridding this economy of any such rogue practices. They have no place in a modern economy," he said. Foreign workers have a huge contribution to make to the economy.

"ISME members have reported in the majority of cases a high level of satisfaction, with many going as far as to say that their productivity is higher than that of the indigenous workers," he said.

There is a need to develop a comprehensive immigration policy and to adopt a more systematic and consultative planning process regarding immigration in the future with active participation by the business community.

"We believe the challenge is to develop an approach to immigration that ensures that it is as successful in attracting skilled labour as it has been in attracting foreign direct investment."

ISME appeal

Migrant workers essential to future economic growth.

20,000 migrant workers a year annum required to fill vacancies.

ISME calls for a comprehensive immigration policy to be put in place.