Sir, - One of the greatest problems facing the Department of Health in recent times has been the shortage of nurses. To solve the problem nurses have been recruited from abroad. One of the biggest groups of foreign nurses has come from the Philippines
This is seen to be a short-term solution. Many of these will leave Ireland when their contracts expire. One of the main reasons why these nurses will not remain in Ireland is that their spouses are not allowed to work legally here. This matter was brought to the attention of the Irish Government by the Philippine ambassador to London. He was told that the Government would consider the applications favourably. No tangible progress has been made.
Recently the husband of a Filipino nurse in one of the major hospitals went to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment requesting a permit to work legally in Ireland. His request was not even considered. A phone call received a recorded message that only employers need apply.
Many of the nurses from the Philippines are married. Some have already brought their husbands to join them in Ireland. However, we cannot expect them to remain here without opportunities for employment.
Nurses from the Philippines are now found in many parts of the world. They are being recruited because they are highly qualified with college degrees. They leave their own country for better opportunities and bigger salaries.
Nurses from the Philippines are making a great contribution to the Irish medical services. They are appreciated for their skills and gentle manner.
Many patients speak with glowing praise of the care they received from these dedicated people. But our policies are causing great harm to their families. Young husbands and wives are being separated. Parents have to leave their young children. This is matter which should cause deep concern to us as a welcoming society which holds the family in high esteem. It is interesting to note that the situation in Belfast is very different. There the spouses can immediately work legally and without difficulty.
As chaplain to the Filipino community I am deeply concerned at the pain and harm which is being caused to the families of our Filipino nurses by our policies. Their spouses want to be responsible and productive members of our society, working legally and paying their taxes. Most of them are highly skilled and could make a great contribution to Irish society. It is wrong to forbid them this opportunity. - Yours, etc.,
Fr PATRICK O'CONNELL,
Orwell Road,
Dublin 6.