28/09/2007 (Agence Europe) - Ireland has decided not to take part in the discussions on the proposal for a directive on harmonising sanctions against unlawful employers. During May this year, the European Commission had tabled such a proposal (EUROPE 9428). The decision by the Irish government is said to be due to lobbying by the Irish Business and Employers' Confederation (IBEC), which denounces the excessive amount of red-tape for national businesses, The Irish Times states in its 27 September issue. According to current rules, the United Kingdom and Ireland must decide within three months following presentation of a proposal whether they will opt in, or out, of European legislation concerning illegal immigration. The proposal for a directive will reach the Council negotiating table in December. The Irish government has confirmed it will not be using its “opt in”, without, however, specifying whether it plans to adopt the legislation at a later date. In the meantime, Ireland's own legal arsenal to fight against worker exploitation will prevail. (bc)