I have been informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service that the residence status of a foreign national can only be considered by reference to the particular circumstances of the case. It is not therefore possible to give an indication of the likely residence status which would be granted without reference to the particular circumstances of the individual concerned.
However, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the administrative arrangements that have been put in place to address the situation whereby employment permit holders have been made redundant. These administrative arrangements "New provisions for Non-EEA workers who are made redundant" are available on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie). Further information on the operation of these arrangements is also available on the website of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation (www.entemp.ie).
In general, a person who has been living and working legally in the State for less than 5 years on the basis of an employment permit and who has been made redundant may be granted a six month grace period during which time they can seek to find another employer. The labour market needs test will not be required in respect of employment permit applications made on foot of these arrangements. The administrative arrangements also include special provision for those who have been working for 5 years with an employment permit whereby such persons may be exempted from the requirement to hold an employment permit and may be granted a stamp 4 permission.
Applications for long term residency are considered in respect of persons who haveresided legally (as per endorsements in passport) for a period of 60 months or longer on the basis of Work Permit, Work Authorisation, or Working Visa conditions. An exemption from Work Permit requirements is considered at the same time. However, if the Deputy has a specific case in mind and wishes to furnish the particulars, officials in the Immigration Division of my Department will be happy to advise.