TGWU: Migrant workers amnesty needs debate
Wednesday, 05, Jul 2006 12:00
Amnesty for migrant workers needs serious debate
Jack Dromey, T&G Deputy General Secretary, today (Wednesday 5th July) called for a serious debate about irregular working, in rejecting the arguments of right wing think-tank Migrationwatch, who campaign against mass migration. Mr. Dromey called for irregular workers to become regularised, by way of an amnesty.
“Our country and economy needs migrant workers. Irregular working is part of our economy and we need a serious debate about how to tackle it.
"Rather than criminalising irregular migrants, many of whom have lived and raised their families in the UK for years, we should establish a way for them to work and contribute legally. If countries like the United States, Spain and Italy can have an amnesty, politicians wanting a sensible discussion should be prepared to consider its benefits.
"The tone of Migrationwatch, a right wing think-tank, with their talk of the loss of 'our traditional culture' is deplorable. Migrant communities have strengthened our society and economy for centuries. Are they seriously suggesting we uproot half a million people, which is not only immoral, but would be at a cost of millions and take 25 years according to the government?
"Regularising migrant workers is about advancing a practical, workable system. There are no easy answers, but an amnesty deserves a serious debate that aims to build a political consensus."
ENDS
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