Brussels, 08/10/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 8 October, the Swiss government adopted a negotiating brief for discussions with the EU on the adaptation of the free movement of people agreement, following the vote on 9 February last opposing mass immigration. The opening of any talks, however, depends on the EU's agreement, which, for the time being, believes that the current agreement is nonnegotiable. Switzerland has two objectives: adapting the agreement on the reintroduction of quotas by Switzerland and preserving bilateral options with the EU. In July, Switzerland formally requested revision of the agreement on the free movement of people with the EU. Switzerland is seeking to reintroduce a quota system in 2017, in an effort to limit immigration. The Swiss government is committed to re-establishing quotas for all foreigners who have spent more than four months in the country. The system also affects border areas that up until now have enjoyed special authorisation to work in Switzerland. National preference is now expected to be taken into consideration when a job becomes available in Switzerland. The Swiss government would also like to encourage women and senior citizens in Switzerland to work, in an effort to tackle a possible foreign labour shortage. A draft law in this connection is expected to be made available for consultation by the end of the year, in view of a Parliamentary debate. The Swiss will again be called on to give their opinion on the issue of immigration during a referendum for 30 November next. (LC)