Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1226. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine what engagement he has had with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment on the Employment Permits Bill 2022 given the importance of this legislation for areas such as the horticulture sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57043/23]
View answerIn recent years, as the economy has been approaching full employment, the use of employment permits has become more important for the agri-food sector. Although this issue is primarily the responsibility of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE), my Department liaises on these matters as they affect agri-food.
Following the Review of Economic Migration Policy by an inter-Departmental Group in 2018, which found that there is a clear demand for a time-limited permission for lower-skilled roles of a seasonal nature, my Department has been in regular contact with DETE. The Employment Permits Bill 2022 provides for the introduction of a Seasonal Employment Permit (SEP) to respond to this need. The SEP will be of particular benefit to the horticulture sector. It will be based firmly in the theory of sustainable circular migration and be supported by a robust labour rights framework. It will provide labour market access for up to seven months with the return of the worker each season. Progress on the Bill is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment but I understand it is hoped to bring it back to the Oireachtas soon for further consideration.
In addition, it is proposed that there will be a pilot seasonal permit scheme in 2025 for the fruit and vegetable sector.
