A chara, - I note with interest Garret FitzGerald's comments (Opinion, January 18th) regarding the ongoing growth in immigration being mirrored by growth in overall employment. The experience of many nations would attest to this pattern of growth generated by a new, and usually comparatively young, labour force moving into their societies.
I also note the sensible suggestion to allow those who come seeking asylum to also work and contribute to the community and economy.
Additionally, I would suggest that this is a time to continue highlighting the current situation where an inflexible work permit system constrains immigrants (like myself) from being mobile in the labour force.
Not only does this system hold employees hostage to specific employment situations, it also stifles the flexibility and innovation that are increasingly hallmarks of a modern labour force. - Is mise,
ANDREW BUTT, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.