The Irish State’s general policy is to promote the sourcing of labour and skills needs from within the workforce of the European Union and other EEA states. However, where specific skills prove difficult to source within the EEA, an employment permit may be sought in respect of a non-EEA citizen who possess those skills.
The employment of non-EEA citizens in the State is governed by the Employment Permits Acts 2003 – 2014. Under this legislation in order to work in the State all non-EEA citizens require a valid employment permit or relevant immigration permission issued by the Minister of Justice and Equality which allows them to reside and work in the State without the requirement for an employment permit.
The issue to which the Deputy refers is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality.