A memorandum of understanding has been signed with Ireland on a new bilateral working holiday scheme for young people.

It enables those aged 18 to 30 from both places to stay up to 12 months in each other's territory for holidays and short-term employment. Participants can take up temporary jobs for not more than three months with any one employer.

The scheme comes into effect March 1, and there are 100 visitor places available for both sides annually.

Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Stephen Ip and Ireland's Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment Michael Martin signed the memorandum today.

"The scheme will provide invaluable opportunities for our young people to gain exposure to a different culture and get work experience. I encourage our young people to make good use of this worthwhile scheme," Mr Ip said.

"It will also strengthen bilateral ties between Hong Kong and Ireland and help tourism both ways."

Eligibility

Eligible applicants are:

* ordinary residents of Hong Kong holding a valid Hong Kong SAR or British National Overseas passport;

* aged 18 to 30 and intend primarily to holiday in Ireland;

* those having the means to pay for the return journey and be able to maintain themselves while in Ireland; and,

* holders of medical and comprehensive hospitalisation and liability insurance during their stay in Ireland.

Application procedures will be announced later.

Hong Kong put in place a similar scheme with New Zealand in April 2001 and Australia six months later. Eligible applicants can approach the relevant consulates for application forms and enquiries.