Athlone Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the expansion of the employment permit system as announced by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment recently.
Athlone Chamber of Commerce recently submitted a comprehensive proposal to the Department, seeking an expansion of the critical skills list while emphasising the importance of retaining existing skills on the list. The submission showed the urgent need to incorporate new skill sets that are integral to meeting the evolving demands of the current workforce landscape.
Additionally, it underscored the significance of maintaining the current skills on the list, highlighting how these skills remain pivotal for sustaining various sectors of the local and national economy. The submission encapsulated the Chamber’s commitment to fostering an agile and competitive business environment by ensuring that the critical skills list reflects the dynamic requirements of today’s industries while safeguarding the ongoing relevance of essential skill categories.
The recent expansion of the critical skills list marks a significant step forward, with 43 changes incorporated, making it the most comprehensive expansion witnessed to date.
“We commend the Government’s proactive step in expanding the critical skills list, a testament to their responsiveness to the evolving needs of our economy. This expansion aligns with Athlone Chamber’s ongoing commitment to championing a thriving business landscape.
“It not only signifies a crucial acknowledgment of the skills essential for our industries but also amplifies our collaborative efforts in shaping a robust, future-ready workforce. We remain dedicated to partnering with the Government to ensure our businesses have access to the talent necessary for sustained growth and innovation,” Tommy Hogan, Athlone Chamber’s Chief Executive, remarked.
