The new rules on work permits were implemented today, June 1st.
This requires that a vacancy must be advertised for two months and no local or European Union applicant found before a work permit application from a non-EU candidate can be considered. The condition will apply equally to new applicants and to work permit holders already resident here who lose their jobs. Other changes include the removal of certain categories of work in the healthcare, financial services and marketing sector from eligibility for work permits, modifications to the green card system and a major increase in work permit fees.
The changed rules will have a devastating impact on those migrant workers who are made redundant, many of whom have lived here for many years, paid taxes and PRSI. They face deportation if they fail to secure employment within three months. Previously if they lost their job, they could have their work permit transferred to a new employment in the same sector. By having to wait until a position has been advertised for two months, the prospect of them obtaining employment before they lose their entitlement to be here will be minimal. They will become undocumented, with devastating consequences for them and their families.
