Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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282. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation when the mid-year review of the occupation lists for employment permits for workers from outside the European Economic Area will be completed. [24847/19]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The lists of occupations for employment permits are subject to twice yearly review which examines labour market conditions at occupation level. The process involves in depth examination of the research and labour market intelligence undertaken by the Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (Solas), the Expert Group of Future Skills Needs, and the National Skills Council, review of relevant Reports, education outputs and initiatives, sectorial upskilling and training initiatives and any known contextual factors. The observations and input of relevant Government Departments are also incorporated in addition to a public consultation process. Submissions to the review process are also considered by the Economic Migration Policy Interdepartmental Group chaired by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation with membership drawn from senior officials of key Government Departments and Solas.

I announced the commencement of the next review of the occupations lists on 31st May with a closing date of 12th July for receipt of submissions. Submissions received up to that date will undergo a review process which will also incorporate the scheduling of engagement with relevant lead policy Government Departments for their views and observations and consultation with the Interdepartmental Group on Economic Migration Policy. My Department undertakes this review process twice yearly with all elements of each process expected to take approximately six months to complete. This ensures the occupations lists undergo regular and timely updating to ensure a flexible and robust employment permits regime in line with the changing needs of the economy. It is expected that this review will be completed by the end of the year.