A blueprint outlining Ireland's economic migration policy has been drawn-up to ensure the country maintains the skills necessary for a buoyant economy, it emerged today.
Forfas and an Expert Group on Future Skills Needs worked together on the plan to outline the skills needs of Irish industries.
A spokesman for the Enterprise, Trade and Employment Department said: "A blueprint has been drawn-up for Ireland's economic migration policy to ensure the skills to sustain the current economic environment."
The Expert Group, which was chaired by Anne Heraty, identified the sectors and occupations which were experiencing skills deficits including parts of the construction industry and financial services.
Enterprise Minister Micheal Martin is due to publish the report 'Skills Needs of the Irish Economy: The Role of Migration' which makes several recommendations on the role of migration policy in addressing the deficits.
The report is also due to fully outline the sectors and occupations to which the new green cards will apply. The changes to the green card system expected to be introduced will mean skilled workers earning €30,000 or more in certain industries will be able to qualify for the system.
PA