Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 February 2026
455. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment when seasonal work permits will be allocated for seasonal workers in the horticulture sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14939/26]
View answerThe Employment Permits Act 2024 provides for the introduction of a Seasonal Employment Permit (SEP) to address the demand for a time-limited permission for employment in roles of a genuinely seasonal nature. As this is the first permit type of its kind to operate in the State, my Department has undertaken a pilot scheme to assess its viability and inform future policy development.
Following extensive engagement with representatives of the horticulture sector, as well as with the lead Government Departments and relevant State agencies, the SEP pilot was designed to operate specifically in the soft-fruit subsector where seasonal labour challenges are most acute.
As part of this pilot, two employers were approved as Approved Seasonal Employers (ASEs). One of these employers proceeded to recruit workers under the SEP, and the first group of seasonal migrant workers arrived during the course of the pilot period.
The SEP pilot scheme formally operated from 14 April to 13 November 2025, providing my Department with a full season of operational experience, including the end-to-end process from employer approval through to the arrival and employment of workers.
A comprehensive review of the pilot covering its design, implementation, worker protections, employer experience, and overall effectiveness is currently being drafted. The findings of this review, including recommendations for the potential future operation of the Seasonal Employment Permit, will be finalised in the coming weeks.
