Campaign to Stop the Work Permit Changes - May 2009

In April 2009, the MRCI launched a campaign to stop several changes made to the employment permit system introduced by the Government. Under the new rules, migrant workers on permits who were made redundant were prohibited from taking up a new job unless it is had been publicly advertised for two months. The change introduced an enormous barrier for people to get another job, regardless of how long they had been living and working in Ireland. Many people and their families who made Ireland their home would have been forced to leave or have no other choice but to stay and work informally.
After a four month-campaign of MRCI's Migrant Worker Action Groups and allies against these changes, the Government eventually reversed its decision regarding work permit changes and made some positive changes including doubling the length of time, from three to six months, that workers in the permit system have to seek alternative employment when made redundant. In addition, the government introduced a new policy that migrants who live and work in Ireland for five years under the work permits system receive a permission to live and work, without the need to apply for another work permit (Temporary One-Year Stamp 4).

The success of this campaign was as a result of migrant workers and allies mobilising to change unjust policies. This reversal and the new provisions leave non-EEA migrant workers in a better position than when the campaign began. It will make a significant difference in the lives of thousands of non-EEA migrant workers who have committed themselves to Ireland, but whose futures were hanging in the balance. It gives migrant workers greater equality and greater opportunity to support their families and to contribute to Irish society.

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• work permit
• migrant workers
• redundant

[brandonlovesmonkeys]

I believe in a limit to immigration or a cap , it's currently too high