Workers from Romania and Bulgaria will still have to apply for work permits in Ireland even after their countries join the European Union on 1 January next year.
The announcement was made this afternoon by Micheál Martin, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, who said they would be given preference over nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA).
The minister said the decision would be kept under review, and would be assessed comprehensively before the end of 2008.
Mr Martin said that the Government decision was informed by the very significant inflow of migrants to Ireland from the 10 states which joined the EU in 2004. Those migrants were not required to have work permits.
He said the views of IBEC and ICTU were taken into account, as well as the position of other member states.
He said it was felt on this occasion that it was appropriate to be cautious and concentrate on the integration needs of those who had already come to live and work in Ireland.
Britain to restrict migrants' right to work
Earlier, Britain's Home Secretary, John Reid, announced plans limiting the right of people from Romania and Bulgaria to work in the UK after they become EU members.
Lower-skilled workers will initially only be able to work in the food processing and agricultural sectors.
Mr Reid said there would be 'transitional' controls on immigration after the countries join the EU next year.
In a written statement to parliament, Mr Reid also said a Migration Advisory Council would be introduced to provide guidance on how low-skilled immigration should be managed.
The Conservative Party has claimed that many more migrants than had been estimated came to Britain when 10 countries joined the EU two years ago.
