Work Permits

Thursday, 25 September 2025

Ceisteanna (252)

Richard Boyd Barrett

Ceist:

252. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the appropriate routes for Palestinians in Gaza to acquire employment permits in Ireland, which might enable the granting of a visa and subsequent evacuation from the region (details supplied); for details of any efforts his Department is making to connect Palestinians in Gaza with potential employers in Ireland; and for any guidance he might issue to Oireachtas members for connecting Palestinians in Gaza with potential employers in Ireland. [51095/25]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment

The Employment Permits system is designed to be accessible to all non-EEA nationals, regardless of nationality, provided that the standard legislative requirements are met. These requirements include that the role in question is eligible under current policy, that a valid job offer has been secured from a prospective employer in the State, and that the application satisfies the relevant criteria set out under the Employment Permits Act 2024 and the Employment Permit Regulations 2024.

It is important to note that the granting of visas is a matter for the Minister for Justice, while matters relating to evacuation and consular support fall under the remit of the Minister for Foreign Affairs. My Department’s role is confined to the processing of employment permit applications in accordance with established legislation and guidelines.

My Department does not operate any nationality-based restrictions on employment permit applications. Applications from Palestinian nationals are treated in the same manner as applications from any other non-EEA nationals, and will be processed fairly and efficiently, subject to the established criteria being met.