I propose to take Questions Nos. 152 and 157 together.
In order to take up employment in Ireland, non-EEA nationals require an employment permit from my Department, with a corresponding immigration permission by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration. Alternatively, non-EEA nationals may be granted an immigration permission to enter and reside in the State to take up employment without the need for an employment permit. The grant of such permissions is at the discretion of the Minister of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.
My Department’s Employment Permits Unit administers the employment permits system and the grant of permits to non-EEA applicants who meet the eligibility requirements. There are no restrictions on the nationalities that may be hired through an employment permit. Therefore, any employer in the state may hire from any jurisdiction, including the occupied Palestinian territories.
The Employment Permits Unit provides a range of guidance and information platforms and bulletins that are accessible on my Department’s website. These include guidance on who can apply, eligibility requirements, Frequently Asked Questions and useful checklists and updates on changes and information on increased accessibility for users applying for a permit.
My Department recently launched the new Employment Permits Online application system which is a more intuitive and user led platform making it more accessible for users to apply for and view employment permit applications and information. The Employment Permits Unit also actively engages with employers and other users to provide ongoing guidance and regularly update the user supports.
The Employment Permits Unit also provides a phone service operated by colleagues in the Workplace Relations Commission to provide general information for users on the status of an application. In addition to that, more detailed requests for information can be emailed directly to officials of Employment Permits Unit.
