Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
908. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has had discussions with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport with a view to enabling asylum seekers to apply for a driver licence in view of the fact that his Department has relaxed the criteria for asylum seekers that are seeking employment; if he has not held discussions on this issue, if he will do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33900/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI signed the European Communities (Reception Conditions) Regulations 2018, which entered into force in the State on 30 June. These Regulations transpose the EU(Recast) Reception Conditions into national law and provide for effective access for eligible international protection applicants to the labour market, in line with what was agreed by Government. These replaced the interim arrangements that came into force on 9th February.
Approximately 3,000 adult protection applicants are now eligible to apply for a labour market permission. A broad and generous level of access has been provided, which will allow eligible applicants access to all sectors of employment with the exception of the Civil and Public Service, An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces.
I and my officials are aware of the question of driving licences and it has been taken up at official and Ministerial level. The matter is primarily one for the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and the relevant agencies under its remit. There are on-going communications to determine if an appropriate solution can be found.
