input from both private industry and the immigration department.

Agreement between the two parties is said to have been reached yesterday and the Minister in charge, Paula Cox is expected to announce the details in a press conference next Tuesday.

Ms Cox was forced to postpone a special media briefing and conference she planned to hold yesterday after there were scheduling conflicts with other ministries.

Ms Cox has been holding executive briefings with key business groups on the new work permit policies that will go into effect from March 31.

Paula Cox