Govt accused of misleading migrant workers

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) has accused the Government of obscuring the issue of work permits for migrant workers and failing to deliver changes they pledged.

ICTU said under the terms of the Employment Permits Bill some workers will be entitled to apply for their own permits, while others will continue to depend on their employers to make the application.

The group said that, despite what Government spin would have workers believe, in effect the new bill does not mean migrant workers will own their work permits.

ICTU today published a policy document on this issue and migrant workers in general.

It calls for a clearer Government position on immigration and the integration of those who come here to work.

The document warns that that if the country doesn't deal properly with the issue, it will mean substantial racial problems in the future.

Esther Lynch of ICTU said it is wrong of the Government to mislead people who have hopes for entitlements and a better life.

Speaking at the launch of the document she said the present legislation must be amended.