CBI Northern Ireland responds to migration advisory committee report

CBI Northern Ireland has responded to the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) report on salary thresholds and a points-based immigration system.

Angela McGowan, CBI Northern Ireland Director, said:

“With free movement coming to an end, a new immigration system that is fair and sustainable from day one is as important for many firms as our future trading relationships.

“Reducing the headline salary threshold will be welcomed by businesses, which argued that a £30,000 cap would be damaging. Yet even with a commitment to world-class business training, it remains unclear how firms in Northern Ireland would be able to hire for roles across a range of skill levels.

“Piloting a new visa for ‘remote’ areas, with a lower threshold, would help ensure the new system works for all parts of the UK.

“Flexibility will be needed to build a system that lets wages rise where there are shortages while helping businesses to access the skills and labour required

“Business looks forward to working in partnership with government to get this new system right.”