Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
319. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment if he will reform the work permit regulations concerning the visa process for non-EEA dental nurses allowing them to practise in the jurisdiction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15759/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s economic migration policy is designed to address verified and ongoing skills shortages across the economy. The system is vacancy-led and is managed through the Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL) and the Ineligible Occupations List, both of which are reviewed on a regular basis by my Department.
A new review of the occupation lists is currently under way. This review commenced with an open public consultation, which closed on 19 September and attracted a wide range of submissions, including from stakeholders from the dental health sector. The role of Dental Nurse is not currently eligible for an employment permit and its eligibility is being considered through engagement with the Department of Health - which has policy responsibility for the dental sector - and the Interdepartmental Group on Economic Migration Policy.
My Department has worked in close cooperation with the Department of Health to ensure that the employment permits system is aligned with the national objective of meeting the health and dental service demands. This engagement is focused on evaluating current service level and availability and identifying alternative pathways aimed at contributing domestically to addressing any shortages of skilled candidates in all health services in addition to access through the employment permits system where justified.
In considering changes to the occupation lists, my Department assesses not only labour-market evidence but also wider whole-of-Government factors. These include the potential impact of inward migration on housing demand, transport capacity, healthcare, and other public services.
My Department is currently finalising the outcome of the review, and the updated occupation lists will be published in the coming weeks.
I remain committed to ensuring that the employment permits system continues to be responsive, evidence-based, and aligned with key national priorities including, importantly, the delivery of essential health and dental services.
