asked the Minister for Justice the reason for the refusal to give political asylum to two Ethiopian citizens who had applied for this at Shannon Airport in March; if he is aware of the widespread concern at our apparent reluctance to afford such sanctuary which is a normal feature of all democratic societies; and if he will outline the requirements necessary before such asylum can be given.
Written Answers. - Political Asylum.
103.
The passengers' request was fully examined in the context of the 1951 United Nations Convention (Geneva) on the status of refugees and the 1967 protocol relating to the status of refugees. The Department of Foreign Affairs were consulted. The case was also discussed with the London office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, who sent a representative to interview the passengers. The decision not to allow the passengers to remain in the State was taken in the light of information supplied by the passengers themselves and views offered by the bodies mentioned.
The requirements in relation to entry by aliens into the State are contained in the Aliens Act, 1935, and regulations made thereunder. Subject to the requirements of these instruments and the convention and protocol referred to above, applications for political asylum are considered on the individual merits.
I am not aware that there is widespread concern in relation to the cases in question which were dealt with in accordance with law and acceptance procedures and only after the most painstaking inquiries.