Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2021
63. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures being taken to increase numbers of employment permits for qualified HGV drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47019/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe State's employment permit system is designed to supplement Ireland's skills and labour supply over the short to medium term by allowing enterprises to recruit nationals from outside the EEA, where such skills or expertise cannot be sourced from within the EEA at that time. The system is, by design, vacancy led and managed through the operation of the critical skills and ineligible occupation lists. These lists are subject to twice yearly evidence-based review, taking account of labour market research, a public consultation and contextual issues such as Brexit and Covid 19.
With effect from 2017, the occupation of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) driver has been eligible for a General Employment Permit, subject to a quota initially of 120 employment permits. In January 2020, this quota was increased to 320 in anticipation of the impact of Brexit on the sector and evidence of EEA-wide labour shortages. To date ,175 employment permits have issued to HGV drivers, leaving 145 permits remaining and available.
My Department, working with the Department of Transport is keeping this matter under review. A review of the Occupation Lists is currently underway, with submissions received, including submissions from the HGV sector, under consideration. It is expected that the current review will be finalised in the coming weeks.
