The state must adopt a number of reforms to its immigration policy if it is to maintain its status as a competitive economic force and integrate skilled foreign workers more successfully, according to a report published this evening.
The study, carried out by Chambers Ireland, the country's largest business network, compared the state's policy with those of the USA, Canada, Australia, Britain and New Zealand - all of which have long-established histories of immigration.
Chambers Ireland claims the Government can "reposition" the State "as a prime destination for the World's most talented and accomplished workers" by implementing 10 recommendations outlined in the study.
Speaking at the launch of the report Seán Murphy, Chambers Ireland director of policy, said: "The development of a more strategic approach towards skilled migration can ensure that Ireland becomes a magnet for highly skilled foreign nationals that will aid the ongoing development of our economy and society."
Among the recommendations made is a call for the government to introduce work visas that enable permanent residency, as is the case in the other five countries studied. This would "promote Ireland as a destination of choice for high skilled workers and to significantly reduce the red tape involved in the visa process."
It also calls for the introduction of a points system, like that used in Australia, where potential immigrants are assessed and evaluated, depending on their qualifications, language skills and whether they have employment organised in Ireland prior to arrival.
An automatic granting of visas to partners of skilled workers is also recommended, while the term 'partner' should be amended to include "same-sex and stable cohabiting relationships". This, Chambers Ireland claims, will enhance Ireland's "status as an economy that welcomes new talent".
The study compared Ireland with the other countries in areas such as "application requirements", "approaches taken towards partners and dependents", processing times, online services for applicants and the "manner by which citizenship is achieved."