Residency Permits

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024

Wednesday, 17 January 2024

Questions (1047)

Marc Ó Cathasaigh

Question:

1047. Deputy Marc Ó Cathasaigh asked the Minister for Justice whether she is aware of the situation whereby bus and lorry drivers coming from South Africa to take up employment with transport companies are experiencing significant delays in making appointments for IRP in Dublin, a three week processing time for receipt of IRP cards, and the delay this is causing for NDLS appointments, and consequently employees being unable to take up their position as drivers to alleviate pressure in public and private transport services, as outlined in (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57052/23]

Written answers

Minister for Justice

My Department's Registration Office in Burgh Quay is responsible for registering immigration permissions for applicants residing in the Dublin area only. First time registrations for applicants outside of the Dublin area are processed by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) through the Garda Station network. The allocation of appointments with the GNIB is a matter for An Garda Síochána.

The Registration Office operates an appointments booking service for first-time registration appointments via a Freephone service (1800 800 630).  All appointments for Dublin based applicants to register their immigration permission are issued through this service.

Appointment slots in Dublin are released up to 3 months ahead, while the earliest appointment currently available is typically within 1 week. Once registered, an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card will issue within 10–15 working days.