Details of a new work permit scheme for non-EU citizens are expected to be agreed today at a special meeting of senior Ministers to deal with the twin issues of asylum-seekers and an emerging skills shortage within the economy.
Last night a Government spokesman denied as "without any foundation whatsoever" a report that consideration was being given to an effective amnesty for asylum-seekers now in the State, to be followed by the rigorous enforcement of the law against future applicants.
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, will chair the meeting, which was called to consider initiatives and policy options put forward by senior officials within five Departments. Some weeks ago the Minister of State, Ms Liz O'Donnell, described Government policy on asylum-seekers as "a shambles".
During last week's vote of no confidence in his handling of the issue in the Dail, the Minister for Justice, Mr O'Donoghue, promised to update Government policy and to seek additional funding, staff and facilities to deal with the present difficulties. He said those asylum-seekers who did not qualify for refugee status should be repatriated. Anyone who wished to take up employment here would have to secure a work visa in advance, he said.
The Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Ms Harney, is expected to put her proposals for an expanded work visa programme to the meeting. The scheme will apply to non-EU citizens and help employers in recruiting workers abroad.
Employers have told the Government there are up to 50,000 job vacancies in the State and they wish to create a pool of immigrant labour from which these jobs can be filled.
The Minister for Environment and Local Government, Mr Dempsey, will deal with the issue of future accommodation and the dispersal of such workers throughout the community.
The Minister for Health and Children, Mr Cowen, will discuss the medical screening of immigrants and the responsibilities of health boards. Mr O'Donoghue and the Minister for Social, Community and Family Affairs, Mr Ahern, will contribute to the discussion, as will Ms O'Donnell in her role as Minister of State responsible for human rights.