Dublin – The Irish government is preparing to undertake a comprehensive review of its work permit system, according to Minister of State for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Alan Dillon. While a specific timeline has not yet been confirmed, the review is expected to take place later this year.
The announcement was made in response to a parliamentary question posed by Cork East Fine Gael TD Noel McCarthy, who inquired whether the government was considering updates to the Ineligible Occupations List (IOL) to address labour shortages in the agricultural sector.
Minister Dillon confirmed that all categories of employment permits will be reviewed in 2025. Work permits are issued to non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals based on the Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL) and the Ineligible Occupations List (IOL), which determine eligibility for employment in Ireland.
In the 2023 review, certain agricultural roles—including pig farm managers and assistants—were added to the list of eligible occupations under the General Employment Permit (GEP) scheme. Additionally, the quota for dairy farm assistants and horticultural workers was increased. However, other roles in the agriculture sector remain ineligible.
Minister Dillon noted that these remaining roles may be reconsidered if there is a demonstrated need from the farming community. He emphasised that applications to reclassify roles on the IOL will be carefully assessed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
The criteria for issuing work permits include:
- A verified shortage of available Irish/EEA candidates,
- Assurance that employment opportunities for Irish/EEA workers are not adversely affected,
- Clear evidence of a skills shortage,
- And confirmation that the shortage cannot be addressed through current education, training, or employment supports.
The review process incorporates expert analysis from bodies such as the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, SOLAS, and the Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU). In addition, consultations with stakeholders and input from the interdepartmental group—featuring representatives from departments including Agriculture, Food and the Marine—will inform any proposed amendments.
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