Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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Ireland’s employment permits system is managed through the operation of the Critical Skills and Ineligible Occupations Lists which determine roles that are either in critical short supply or are ineligible for an employment permit.

These lists undergo periodic evidence-based reviews guided by relevant research, a public/stakeholder consultation and the views of the Economic Migration Interdepartmental Group and relevant policy Departments, including the Department of Department of Transport who have policy responsibility for this sector.

The role of Bus Driver is currently on the Ineligible Occupations List and, as such, an employment permit cannot be granted for this occupation.

In order to have an occupation considered for adding to or removing from the Occupations Lists, or for a quota to be created, recruitment difficulties should be demonstrated as 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.

Officials from my Department are engaging with colleagues in the Department of Transport on the need for the role of Bus Driver to be eligible for employment permits and are currently considering whether Bus Drivers should be removed from the Ineligible Occupations List.

The Department continues to keep the employment permits system under review in light of changing labour market circumstances.