asked the Minister for Labour if he recently issued work permits for a number of Romanian mechanics to come and work in the country for Ryanair; the numbers of such permits issued; the reason such permits were issued at a time when so many Irish mechanics are unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Aircraft Mechanics Work Permits.
25.
A number of Romanian nationals engaged on aircraft maintenance for Ryanair are employed in this country for varying periods of time on the basis of work permits dating from 1986. They are employed on a contract basis and do not hold permanent jobs. In all, Ryanair holds 46 permits in respect of aircraft mechanics and also employs a number of Irish nationals for aircraft maintenance.
In 1986, Ryanair advised my Department that they proposed leasing jet aircraft from a Romanian airline, and that it was a condition of the leasing arrangement that Romanian nationals would be seconded to Ryanair for maintenance purposes. On the basis of this arrangement, a number of work permits issued to Ryanair.
For administrative convenience work permits are issued on a yearly basis. The number of maintenance staff currently in this country would only constitute a small number of the permits issued.
I recently directed that this arrangement would be reviewed to ensure that the employment prospects for Irish nationals are maximised. Officials of my Department have been in contact with Ryanair and are to report back to me shortly.