RTÉ: Shortage of HGV drivers exacerbated by visa changes

The shortage of HGV drivers in Ireland is likely to worsen due to recent changes in visa requirements for South African nationals. Senior Immigration Manager Stephen McCrea shares with RTÉ how these visa changes will increase the difficulty for Irish employers to recruit essential drivers from South Africa.

This change comes at a time when 30% of current HGV drivers are expected to retire by 2026, adding pressure to an already strained industry. The new visa process will lead to longer lead times for bringing skilled workers to Ireland, potentially disrupting the economy and the flow of goods. McCrea emphasizes the need for streamlined international recruitment to address these challenges.

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