Why are we giving so many non-EU permits?

THE Government has said repeatedly that other than for special skills shortages, businesses should be able to recruit from within the EU, particularly since the accession of 10 new countries in May 2004.

Normally, therefore, it would not be granting work permits. However, it would appear now that Trade and Enterprise Minister Micheál Martin is not fulfilling that promise.

I call it a promise because we are entitled not to have non-EU immigration beyond what the labour market genuinely requires.

The department’s own website lists 246 new permits granted from Co Cork between January and June 2005. These include bars, hotels, shops and takeaways. There is also the question of why UCC got 15 new permits, as well as 17 renewals.

Something is not right, minister.

Áine Ní Chonaill

PRO, Immigration Control Platform

PO Box 6469

Dublin 2