Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1030. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Justice the current processing times for first-time labour market access permissions; the steps being taken to improve the processing times of first-time applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56778/23]
View answer1031. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Justice the number of first-time labour market access applications; the number granted; the number denied; the number being processed to date in 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [56779/23]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1030 and 1031 together.
Since its introduction in June 2018, under the European Communities (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2018 (S.I. No. 230 of 2018), the labour market access permission issued by my Department, has had a very positive impact for international protection applicants and employers alike.
The data below details labour market access figures since 2018 to date*:
|
First-time labour market access applications |
24,392 |
|
First time labour market access permissions granted to date |
20,288 |
|
First time labour market access permissions refused to date |
3,361 |
*Data correct at time of issue and may be subject to data cleansing.
There are approximately 3,000 applications (first time and renewals) awaiting processing by the labour market access unit of my Department and the processing time is approximately 145 days.
A significant increase in the number of applications was experienced during 2023, reflecting the increase of overall applications for international protection received since 2022. I can assure the Deputy that the unit in question is working hard to finalise applications as quickly as possible and appreciate customers’ patience as they deal with the very high levels of applications. My Department is also reviewing the processing arrangements generally to establish if they can be further streamlined.
