The number of applications for asylum in this State received up to 19 June 1998 is 2,468. To date in 1998, 22 persons have been served with deportation orders. To date in 1998, there have been a total of 21 deportations. In one case the deportation order was served but not effected arising from a judicial review of the case. The person involved was illegally remaining in the State. The deportation orders effected can be divided as follows: removals under Dublin Convention: 11; Failed asylum seekers: 3; Illegal immigrants: 5; and, EU nationals removed on public policy/order grounds: 2; at present the Garda have 15 deportation orders for implementation. As regards the implementation of the Refugee Act, 1996 I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Question Numbers 108 and 109 of 28 May, 1998.
In relation to the question of the right of asylum seekers to work, while their applications are pending, applicants for refugee status are not permitted to engage in employment. They are, however, issued with appropriate documentation to enable them to claim supplementary welfare allowance during that period.
While the matter of allowing asylum seekers to work is essentially a question of employment policy, it must be borne in mind that asylum seekers only have temporary permission to remain in the State pending the determination of their applications. Where their applications are successful they will be allowed to remain in the State and work without restriction. However, where applications are unsuccessful, the applicants, if not permitted to remain for other reasons, will have to leave the State. I do not think that it would be appropriate to allow people with only a temporary permission to remain in the State to be allowed to work and put down roots in this country.
