Paula Butterly (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

393. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reasons all permit applications, both new and renewal, are currently on hold, as indicated by Departmental correspondence; to outline what those circumstances are, when normal processing of applications are expected to resume; the interim measures in place to support affected applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [63136/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Ireland operates a managed employment permits system designed to address skills and labour shortages in the economy while ensuring that opportunities for Irish and EEA nationals are protected. The system is governed by the Employment Permits Act 2024 and associated regulations, which set out the conditions under which permits may be granted.

A key requirement under the legislation is the “50:50 rule,” which provides that at least 50% of an employer’s workforce must be EEA nationals before any new employment permits can issue. This requirement is intended to ensure that the recruitment of non-EEA nationals supplements, rather than substitutes, employment opportunities for EEA nationals.

The company referred to in the question is currently in breach of the 50:50 rule. Accordingly, no new employment permits can be granted to this employer until such time as they return to compliance with this legislative requirement.

Employers are reminded to familiarise themselves with their legal obligations under employment legislation before offering roles to prospective employees.