Sharon welcomes 'Blue Card' to attract skilled workers
October 23, 2007 12:00 AM
Europe needs to attract more skilled immigrants
South East Lib Dem MEP, Sharon Bowles, has today welcomed proposals for an EU 'blue card' for skilled immigrants, which would help to address the current shortage of skilled workers in Britain's economy.
Speaking as the European Commission outlined its plans, Sharon Bowles said, "Over the next twenty years, Europe will lose 20 million workers. These people provide our services and their taxes fund services for citizens."
The 'blue card' scheme, which would allow suitably qualified people and their families to and live and work within the EU, is based on the United States' green card. To be eligible for the card, new immigrants would have to provide proof of qualifications, have at least three years professional experience and the offer of a job which could not otherwise be filled by a European citizen.
It is hoped that the 'blue card' scheme will help to address the current shortage of expertise in Europe's high-tech industries, particularly computing and engineering. It does not, however, include measures to tackle illegal migration.
Sharon Bowles added, "The blue card scheme is welcome. However, it raises its own questions. For example, there is no mention of the workers we need in the catering, healthcare or tourism sectors and it does little to address the challenge of illegal immigrants along our southern borders. Frontex, the EU's border control agency, needs more money to match its mission. Member States must put their money where their mouth is.
Furthermore, this may well fall in an area where the UK can opt-out. A constructive approach on the part on the British Government would, in my view, be much more beneficial."
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