451. Deputy David Maxwell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment the criteria, labour market data and consultation processes used to determine which occupations remain on or are removed from the critical skills occupations list; and whether any review is planned or underway in 2026. [14557/26]

Ireland’s economic migration policy is designed to address verified and persistent skills shortages across the labour market. The Critical Skills Occupations List (CSOL) and the Ineligible Occupations List form the basis of this system, and my Department undertakes regular, evidence-based reviews to ensure the Lists remain up to date and aligned with economic needs.

A range of criteria and labour-market indicators are used to determine whether an occupation should remain on, be added to, or be removed from the CSOL. These include:

• Analysis of vacancy and employment trends, including data from the CSO, the public employment service, and sector-specific surveys.

• Availability of suitably skilled workers within the domestic and EEA labour markets.

• Wage trends and recruitment difficulties reported by employers.

• Input from relevant Government Departments and agencies, particularly where an occupation impacts broader national priorities such as housing delivery, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

A structured consultation process also forms an essential part of each review. This includes:

• A formal public consultation inviting submissions from employers, representative bodies, trade unions, education providers, and individuals.

• Targeted stakeholder engagement with sectors experiencing skills challenges or undergoing structural change.

• Consideration of submissions that provide clear, evidence-based information on labour-market conditions.

Stakeholders who wish to propose the removal of an occupation from the CSOL may do so through this consultation process. Submissions that demonstrate credible labour-market evidence—such as an adequate supply of qualified graduates or experienced workers in Ireland are fully assessed as part of the review. Where the evidence supports such a change, my Department can amend the Lists accordingly.

The Economic Migration Interdepartmental Group also plays a central role in reviewing the emerging labour-market data and cross-government impacts, ensuring the Lists remain aligned with Ireland’s economic and social objectives.

A new review of the occupation lists is currently under way, and my Department is analysing the data and submissions received. Work on this review will continue into 2026, with updated Lists expected to be published following the completion of this process. The employment permits system will continue to be responsive, evidence-driven, and reflective of broader national priorities.