Call for review of foreign work permits

A SECOND Fianna Fáil TD backbencher has come out and called on the Government to review the issuing of permits to foreign workers from outside the European Union given the rising numbers of unemployed people within the State.

Cork East Fianna Fáil TD, Ned O’Keeffe said he fully supported party colleague, Cork North Central TD, Noel O’Flynn in his call on Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Coughlan to review the issuing of work permits to foreign workers from outside the EU.

“It’s an important issue – I don’t believe we should be giving permits to foreign workers – we must look after our own – we have to give priority to Irish workers and Irish jobs – the country can’t afford it – every beginning starts at home, ” said Mr O’Keeffe.

Mr O'Flynn told The Irish Timesthat he had tabled a parliamentary question to Ms Coughlan seeking figures on the number of permits being issued to foreign workers from outside the EU as it was his belief that the system needs further tightening up.