Dundee SNP politicians are supporting teachers from overseas, invited to remain in Scotland under the Fresh Talent initiative, who could now be facing deportation as the result of changes in UK immigration rules and red tape.

The “Fresh Talent Initiative” was launched in 2004 and attracted applications from graduates of Scottish Colleges and Universities who wished to remain and work in Scotland.

Changes to immigration rules last year meant that Local Authorities should have re-applied as the applicants sponsor. In the case of a number of Dundee teachers this has not happened. The UK Border Agency are now suggesting that these teachers will need to return abroad and re-apply under tier 1 of the new points based work permit scheme for their jobs, which could mean a lengthy delay or even that they cannot return.

Stewart Hosie MP said: “There are valuable members of the community currently working in Schools across Dundee who, through no fault of their own, are finding themselves without valid work permits or status to live and work in the UK because of a changeover to the new points based system.”

“I have been assured that Dundee City Council is reacting swiftly to remedy this situation and have an application pending with the Agency.”

Dundee West MSP Joe FitzPatrick said “It is my understanding that Dundee City Council was unaware of the changes to immigration rules last year but that new administration is moving quickly to assist those affected.”

Both politicians urged that anyone who may be affected contact them at their constituency offices (01382 623200) and they will be happy to take forward their individual case with the Home Office.