Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 March 2010
125 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of new work permits issued in each employment category since introduction of the revised scheme in June 2009; the corresponding number of exceptional cases granted new permits in each category; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [10629/10]
View answerThe majority of permits now being issued are for non-EEA nationals already in the country — categorised either as renewal of existing permits or new permits for individuals changing jobs. Given the relatively high level of unemployment and availability of labour supply at all levels, there can be little grounds to justify the open-ended availability of new employment permits for non-EEA nationals. 7,962 employment permits were issued in 2009 down from 13,567 in 2008.
The other information requested by the Deputy is not readily available and will be provided at a later date.
