Malcolm Byrne (Wicklow-Wexford, Fianna Fail)
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389. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of employment permits granted for bus drivers and lorry drivers during 2024, and to date in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51799/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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Ireland operates a managed employment permits system maximising the benefits of economic migration and minimising disruption to Ireland’s labour market. The system is designed to facilitate the entry of appropriately skilled non-EEA nationals to fill skills and/or labour shortages required to develop and support enterprise for the benefit of our economy.

Employment permits continue to be granted for bus and lorry drivers in line with Ireland’s labour market needs. These permits support the transport and logistics sector, which plays a vital role in maintaining supply chains as well as providing access to reliable transport services.

The figures for 2024 and to date in 2025 reflect ongoing demand for skilled drivers, particularly where recruitment challenges remain within the Irish labour market.

The number of Employment Permits granted in respect of HGV Drivers and Bus and Coach Drivers in 2024 and to date in 2025 are as follows: