144. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to outline, since the announcement on 3 July 2024 regarding the quota of 150 general employment permits for the role of sea fisher, the number of applications for these permits that have been made by vessel-owner employers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38857/24]

A new quota of 150 General Employment Permits for the role of sea fisher was introduced on 3 July 2024 to address skills shortages in the Irish fishing fleet.

The Employment Permits Section of the Department informs me that up to 25th September 2024 there has been one application received in respect of the role of Sea Fisher, received on 27th August.

All applications for Employment Permits are processed in date order. The current processing date in respect of new General Employment Permits is 21st August 2024. It is therefore expected that this application will be processed shortly.