The primary concern is not so much 'means testing' new applications for green cards & work permits, but whether the Irish Gov't will follow FAS's report recommendations to refuse renewals of certain existing work permit holders.
http://www.independent.ie/national-news ... 61644.html
http://www.thetimes.co.za/News/Article.aspx?id=961347
''HOMEWARD BOUND: The Lubuschagne family — Daniel, Ashleigh , Liza and Amelia — have been deported from New Zealand after Daniel’s application to renew his work permit was refused after two years of living and working in the country''
In the UK from 31 March, to apply for Highly-Skilled Visa( HSMP Tier 1 Visa ) ,the qualification and minimum salary levels for non-EU professionals will be raised to a masters degree and you must previously be earning the equivalent of 20,000 pounds in your native country!! Incredible considering the exchange rate of the pound to many non-EU countries!
So to end on a somewhat positive note, things aren't all that bad here in the Emerald Isle. And the jury is currently out debating whether this whole global recession is beginning to bottom out.