Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy. A well-functioning labour market and good working conditions are essential components of sustainable and inclusive growth. As part of the efforts to maintain this, the Government operates an employment permits system that is highly responsive to the labour market. I recognise the valuable role migrant workers play in Irish society, particularly in critical areas such as healthcare and ICT. The year 2024 saw significant progress in the implementation of changes to the employment permits system to address the commitments now set out in the programme for Government.

The Employment Permits Act 2024 introduced several improvements to the employment permits system, making it more flexible. This includes the provision of new change-of-employer processes, facilitating permit holders to move jobs more easily. Permit holders on the two main permit types can change to a new employer under their existing permit after a period of nine months has passed since commencing their first employment permit in the State. This has made it significantly easier for permit holders to seek more favourable working conditions and to ensure employers provide the required conditions.

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