Sir, - The news of how acute labour shortages have caused the closure of the plant of the Hawkesbay textile firm in Co Louth with the loss of 300 jobs (The Irish Times, January 7th), clearly demonstrates the potential harmful effect of labour shortages on the Irish economy.
It is pertinent to note that the company was able to finish its final contract on time only by flying in Pakistani workers from its Dubai factory when the manpower crisis peaked. This is incontrovertible evidence of the potential benefits of reviewing work permit procedures to facilitate the employment of skilled immigrant workers as a solution to the crippling labour shortage problem presently affecting all major sectors of the economy. - Yours, etc., Ayo Akande,
Stoneyhurst, Dooradoyle, Co Limerick.