2. Deputy Charles Ward asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment whether he plans to review the employment permits process, with a view to making the process faster; whether his Department has considered streamlining the process with the visa process, in conjunction with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62597/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

I would be grateful if the Minister would let me know whether he plans to review the employment permits process during his term as Minister. The process of applying for a permit can be slow at times and I would like to know his plan to address this. Has the Department considered streamlining this process via the visa process?

Sentiment score: 0.27

I have assisted my constituents in applying and reapplying for employment permits in recent months. The process can sometimes be unnecessarily long, particularly in the case of employment permit appeals. At the moment appeals in respect of this permit take around five months via the Department, which is a very long time. The current system of people having to wait for their employment permit to be granted before they can apply for the visa is inefficient and causes unnecessary delays. It does not make sense for the process to be separated. It is very frustrating for people and employers who are waiting for answers. They are left in complete limbo. The current process should be streamlined to allow for faster decision-making. Has the Minister of State considered working with the embassies to ensure that both are granted at the same time to give people better clarity? As it stands, employers are unable to properly plan and accommodate employees.

Sentiment score: 0.13

With full employment, employers who are relying heavily on employment permits have found it increasingly difficult in recent years to find people to fill important roles. It is clear that an efficient system is required for employers to address the labour shortage to allow them to plan, recruit and maintain their business. Is the Department working with employers to ensure the current system is workable for them? Can the Department improve communications with employers regarding specific applications? Employers lack efficient communication channels with the Department regarding employment permits. The current application process seems like a box-ticking exercise focused on rigid criteria rather than individual circumstances. The Department needs to work with employers if we are to address labour shortages going forward.

Sentiment score: 0.26