The ESRI has added its voice to calls on the Government to allow asylum-seekers and other immigrants to work permanently in Ireland. It would now be timely to guarantee access for a limited number of asylum-seekers and refugees on a permanent basis, as well as making some provision for economic migrants from outside the EU, according to the ESRI's medium-term review.
The ESRI points out that Ireland is now one of the most attractive labour markets in the world, and many abroad would like access to this market for economic as well as humanitarian reasons. "It would be hypocritical to be seeking continued access for our emigrants to the US while simultaneously operating a very restrictive regime for non-EU citizens."
It adds: "Obviously, Ireland cannot solve the world's problems on its own and continuing restrictions on non-EU immigration will continue to be necessary."
The proposal comes in the context of the ESRI's call for Ireland to take on the responsibilities attached to its new-found wealth. In the future, it predicts, this state will have the opportunity, and will be expected to, play a very different role within the EU and in the wider world than it played heretofore.
Rising incomes in the next few years means that it should be possible for Ireland to rapidly raise overseas development aid towards the level of the UN norm. Currently, Irish ODA stands at less than half this UN norm.
As Ireland ceases to be a major net beneficiary of EU funding in the coming years, there could be a change in popular attitudes to the EU. However, this would be to misunderstand the "crucial contribution" European integration has made to the Irish success story.
"More than anything else, it is the free access to the EU market for goods that has made possible Ireland's convergence in living standards. It has been the key factor in persuading foreign firms to expand into Ireland."
The review argues that the Government should take a much more positive stance on EU enlargement than it has up to now. "Enlargement is obviously crucial in producing a stable Europe - a key prerequisite for the future well-being of Ireland. However, it is also important in underpinning the future growth of the Irish economy."
The review points out that many Irish companies have seen the possibilities offered by Central Europe and are expanding through investment into these markets.
"Our long-term interests are likely to be best served by focusing on the importance of integration and a successful enlargement of the EU, rather than fighting a rearguard action on direct financial contributions."
