125. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Justice for an update on the review taking place of family reunification policy, and whether this review will examine the difference in treatment between migrant workers who hold a critical skills permit and those who hold a general skills permit; when this review will be complete; if legislative change will be brought forward on foot of it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24873/25]

Sentiment score: 0.10

Today is International Day of Families. On this day last year, migrant workers - women and men contributing to our economy and our society - protested outside the Minister's Department. They did so because, under the current law, certain categories of migrant workers require both a 12-month wait and an onerous income threshold in order for their family members to come join them here in Ireland. Will this unfair and short-sighted policy change?

Sentiment score: -0.07

This review has been going on for a very long time, and people need clarity and need to see a sensible evolution of the Department's policy. We should remind ourselves that these are hard-working people caring for our elderly and sick, driving our buses and building our homes. At the end of a hard day, they cannot come home to their husband or wife or kids in the same way the Minister of State and I can. For years their lives end up being on hold. As well as being unfair, I would argue that this policy is short-sighted. If we allowed rapid family reunification for workers, we would be more likely to gain additional workers in some of these critical areas, we would give them the best chance of living independently with two incomes and we would not be imposing that painful, unending divide between family. Will the Minister of State give us an indication as to when he believes this review will be published, and will it contain recommendations for change?

Sentiment score: 0.07

I am glad the Minister of State is indicating the review will come soon. As regards the ability to support a family, we are talking about people in full-time, stable employment at a salary level that is set by the State. This population already contributes significantly - millions of euro - to the Exchequer every year in tax. There is clear evidence of their ability to support themselves. That will be enhanced if a second family member arrives and the law has been changed to put them in a position where they can take up work and continue to better support their family. The current system treats critical skills permit holders such as engineers and software developers better than general skills employment permit holders such as people working in care homes and nursing homes, chefs and drivers. I do not see any difference in the value they provide to our economy. I do not see why we should continue to treat them in a different way.

Sentiment score: 0.50