Ireland needs comprehensive and fair Immigration Policy
17 Dec 2004
International Migrants Day, Sunday December 18, 2004,
Congress has called for the development of a comprehensive and fair immigration policy as a means to tackle exploitation and abuse of migrant workers.
The shocking revelations about the abuse of migrant workers, as detailed in the recent report from the Migrant Rights' Centre, serve to underline the need to develop an all-embracing and rights-based policy.
In addition, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) has confirmed that the Irish economy will require 45,000 workers every year, for the next 12 years, in order to sustain economic growth. This would mean a rise of 10,000 immigrants per year, on current levels.
Some 42 percent of Irish businesses have also indicated that they plan to employ non-nationals, in the foreseeable future.
"Ireland has a duty to ensure no migrant worker suffers abuse or exploitation while here. As a first step, it is time to frame and enact a comprehensive and fair immigration policy in order to facilitate the arrival of migrant workers and ensure fair and equal treatment," said Congress Equality Officer, David Joyce.
“Basic Irish legislation governing entry and residence of non-nationals dates back to the 1930's and 1940's and incremental piecemeal reform has been introduced over the years.
“What is needed is a radical reform of the whole framework - a commitment that is included in Sustaining Progress. This policy should focus on rights and entitlements; it should be underpinned by the principle of permanence and should be clear and fair in terms granting the right to stay and participate fully in Irish society," said Mr Joyce.
“Ireland should also take a lead role and encourage EU member-states to ratify the UN International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of Migrant Workers and Members of their Families, 1990, or at least to adopt its principles in drawing up a national policy which would balance labour market concerns with migrant rights."
ends