Irish Employers Risk Talent Loss Amid Rising Racial Tensions, Justice Delays

Irish employers face challenges in attracting and retaining international talent due to increased perceptions of racial tensions and administrative delays at the Department of Justice, Ibec told an employment law conference. Changes to family reunification rules for general work permit holders are also expected to hinder staff retention in hospitality and construction.

Kara McGann, Ibec’s head of social policy, warned that Ireland’s reputation as a welcoming place could take decades to restore if lost. She noted that legitimate concerns about housing and services are being exploited by the far right, using misinformation to fuel anxieties. McGann, who leads Ibec’s Open for Business campaign, emphasized that if talent feels unwelcome, they will leave, impacting investment and the economy, as capital avoids instability.

Ángel Bello-Cortés from Fragomen highlighted significant delays, often exceeding three months, in renewing Irish Residence Permits (IRPs) for overseas workers. These delays disproportionately affect nationals from certain countries, like India, who face travel restrictions if their cards expire. Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy, acknowledged the "exceptionally high demand" causing IRP backlogs and stated that additional staff have been assigned, with further measures under consideration.