Ireland launches scheme to support non-EEA crew members

The Scheme for Employment of Non-EEA crew members is an extension of the Atypical Working Scheme, administered by the Department of Justice & Equality (Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service (INIS)) and implements recommendations made in 2015 by the Government Task Force on Non-EEA workers in the Irish Fishing Fleet.

The scheme was launched by Frances Fitzgerald, Minister for Justice and Equality, Simon Coveney, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Ged Nash, Minister of State for Business and Employment.

Details of the scheme were finalised by a group of bodies brought together by the ministers including relevant government departments, the Irish Sea Fisheries Board, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, Health and Safety Authority, Officer of the Revenue Commissioners and the Workplace Relations Commission.

Simon Coveney, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, said: “This will provide a structured and transparent framework for the employment of non-EEA workers within defined segments of the Irish commercial sea-fishing fleet and should meet the crewing needs of the Irish whitefish fleet.”

“The requirements of the scheme will minimise the risk of exploitation and ensure that these workers are guaranteed all appropriate employment rights and protections during their period of employment,” he added.

As recommended by the task force, from mid-February 2016 to mid-May 2016, the scheme will apply to existing crew member only. From 15 May all non-EEA workers intending to work in the fishing industry must first obtain an Atypical Worker Permission from INIS and visa clearance, if applicable, before entering the country.

Prior to applying for this permission the contract of employment between worker and vessel owner must first be lodged with the Central Depository, National Seafood Centre, Clonakilty, Co. Cork.

Details of the scheme can be found on the INIS website.