Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 12 Mar 1998

Vol. 488 No. 6

Written Answers. - Refugee Commissioner.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

27 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will consider readvertising the position of Refugee Commissioner without an age limit in view of comments in Dáil Éireann on 5 March 1998 regarding age limits in advertisements for public service jobs; if the State has entered a defence to the legal challenge to the Refugee Act, 1996 arising from the age bar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6702/98]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

As this matter is before the courts, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the substance of the matter. I can confirm, however, that the State is in the process of entering a defence in the case.