The Minister for Justice has said a review of migration policy is needed to take account of the changing economic situation.
Michael McDowell said that Ireland had the most open immigration system in Europe in recent years.
Mr McDowell said it might now be appropriate to be more selective in terms of the skills and personal characteristics of prospective migrants, to ensure they matched the needs of our economy and our society.
The Minister said consideration would be given to the introduction of a green card system to allow a more structured approach to the selection of migrants.
He said that the Government was committed to introducing a new legal framework on immigration, which would give greater clarity and certainty to migrants while safeguarding the needs of Irish society.
He made his comments in a speech to the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism in Dublin this morning.
Human rights group calls for decisive action
The Human Rights Commission says there is a need for decisive action to combat racism in Ireland.
In its submission to the National Action Plan against Racism, the Commission says there is an onus on those in public life to confront the problem and provide leadership.
The Commission is also calling for a review of the 1989 Incitement to Hatred Act to make it more effective.
It wants special Garda training in order to ensure that the force can combat possible prejudice.
