Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 April 2023
46. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department is considering removing the role of mechanics from the ineligible list of occupations for employment permits; if so, when he expects such a decision to be made; the engagement his Department has had to date with the Department of Transport on the subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18452/23]
View answerThe occupational lists for employment permits are subject to regular, evidence-based review incorporating a review of available research and a public consultation which provides stakeholders with an opportunity to submit information and perspectives on the extent of skills or labour shortages. Submissions to the review are considered by the Interdepartmental Group on Economic Migration Policy with membership drawn from key Government Departments including the Department of Transport who, as lead policy department for this sector, may provide observations on the occupation under review.
In order for a change in the eligibility status of an occupation to be considered, submitters should provide evidence demonstrating that recruitment difficulties being experienced are due to shortages across the EEA and not to other factors such as salary and/or employment conditions. Sectors are also required to engage structurally with the public employment service of the Department of Social Protection.
The occupation of mechanic is currently on the Ineligible Occupations List and, as such, an employment permit cannot be granted at present for this occupation. The Department has been working closely with the Department of Transport on the matter and expects to receive submissions in regard to the occupation of mechanic when the review of the occupations lists commences. The timing of the next review is currently under consideration but is expected to commence with the opening of the public consultation phase in coming months.
