Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 October 2022
168. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to extend the remit of eligibility for work permits to bus drivers from third countries given the acute shortage of same within the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51772/22]
View answerIreland operates a managed employment permits system maximising the benefits of economic migration and minimising the risk of disrupting Ireland’s labour market.
The system is vacancy led and designed to accommodate the arrival of non-EEA nationals to fill skills and labour gaps for the benefit of our economy, in the short to medium term, and is managed through the operation of the Critical Skills and Ineligible Occupations Lists which determine roles that are either in critical short supply or are ineligible for an employment permit.
The Occupations Lists undergo periodic evidence based review and a public/stakeholder consultation. Account is also taken of upskilling and training initiatives and known contextual factors such as the granting of temporary protection to individuals fleeing the conflict in Ukraine that have arrived in Ireland. My Department chairs the Interdepartmental Group to oversee the review process which includes membership drawn from senior officials of key departments including the Department of Transport who have policy responsibility for this sector.
The aim of the Group is to promote an integrated approach to addressing labour and skills shortages being experienced in the economy and is guided by relevant research. This includes assessing proposals received through the public consultation for changes to the Occupations Lists.
The role of Bus Driver is on the Ineligible Occupations List and, as such, an employment permit cannot be granted for this occupation. In order to have an occupation considered for adding to or removing from the Occupations Lists, evidence should be provided demonstrating shortages are due to recruitment difficulties and shortages across the EEA, and not linked to salary or employment terms and conditions. Sectors are also required to engage structurally with the employment service of the Department of Social Protection.
The Department continues to keep the employment permits system under review in light of changing labour market circumstances and the timing of the next Review of the Occupational Lists will be kept under consideration.
