Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy who has raised this matter on a number of occasions. Work-riders are currently not eligible for employment permits. A submission was made by Horse Racing Ireland and the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association to the most recent review of the occupation list and this was considered on the available evidence.

The horse racing industry is recognised as a significant economic sporting sector. Evidence suggests that there are good efforts in the industry to provide training and career progression opportunities in this employment. It is acknowledged that the unique physical criteria applying to individuals in this role may be challenging to source within the EEA. However, there is currently insufficient data available on this occupation to suggest shortages. Based on the evidence available, no change was proposed for this occupation at this time. However, it is proposed that the sector provide more information, in particular, detailed evidence of efforts to recruit from within the EEA, for consideration during the next review. This could include, for example, evidence of engagement with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection and the European Employment Services - the other employment network.

In order to have an occupation considered for either being added to the critical skills list or being removed from the ineligible list, there would need to be clear demonstration that recruitment difficulties are solely due to shortages across the EEA and not to other factors such as salary and-or employment conditions. The views of the lead policy Department for the sector, in this case, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, are an important part of the decision-making process and I recommend engagement with the Department in advance of any further action.

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