Reform of work permit law will protect rights of foreign workers

Foreign workers on permits will be allowed to switch jobs faster to combat exploitation, under new government plans.

A non-EU worker on a five-year general employment permit can technically change employers after one year, but requires their new employer to arrange a further work permit for them at a cost of €1,000.

The government is expected to change the rules so that these workers can switch jobs without needing a new permit.

This will give ...