Work Permits
424. Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) has applied for a work permit and that the company to whom they have applied needs their services, that they have tried to recruit workers from here and EEA countries without success; if under these circumstances a work permit will be granted to this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6581/06]
Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin): The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment’s work permit section refused an application in respect of the named non-EEA national on 8 December 2005 on the grounds that the proposed employee was here on a D-visit stamp, for which work permits are not issued. The employer was notified of this decision and of the right to appeal in writing. An appeal has not yet been received. The Deputy will note that an individual in possession of a student visa is entitled to work for up to 20 hours per week without the requirement to hold a valid work permit.