Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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29. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will address a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63622/22]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, 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, which include the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media who have policy responsibility for the tourism sector.

The role of Spa Therapist 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, the sector may consider preparing a submission providing evidence to support that request and demonstrating that recruitment difficulties are 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.

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