Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 4 Feb 1999

Vol. 499 No. 5

Written Answers. - Departmental Procedures.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

15 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the urgent need to address the misgivings held by asylum seekers in relation to the interview procedures in his Department, in particular, the need for a full written report to be issued following any interview in his Department and the need for the applicant to be accompanied by his choice of interpreter and for his Department to underwrite the full cost of such translator facilities; the plans, if any, he has to take action on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3028/99]

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

The refugee determination procedures were put in place following extensive consultations with the UNHCR and the UNHCR has stated "overall, we believe that the revised document provides for a balanced administrative procedure pending the entry into force of the Refugee Act".

My Department undertakes to operate the procedures in a spirit of co-operation with the UNHCR with a view to ensuring that no person deserving of protection in the State is refused it.

Each application for refugee status is fully and fairly considered and each applicant has access to an independent appeals system and legal representation. These are the principles by which I am operating and will continue to operate.

I am satisfied that the procedures are reasonable, fair, transparent and in accordance with the philosophy of the Refugee Act. They are also in accordance with our international obligations and humanitarian traditions in this area.

My Department is not aware of any misgivings held by asylum seekers in relation to the asylum interview procedures.

All applicants for refugee status are notified of the decision in relation to their application in writing. The grounds for appeal must be fur nished within 14 days from the issue of this material. If the application is refused, the applicant is advised that she or he may appeal the decision. If the applicant wishes to appeal, notice of the intention must be furnished within 14 days of the referral letter. All material on which the decision was based is made available to the applicant or any legal representative.

My Department has always provided and continues to provide interpretation facilities so that in all instances an asylum seeker does not have to present his or her case without the benefit of an interpreter. All interpreters receive training, which is conducted primarily by the UNHCR and which outlines the role of the interpreter or translator and highlights the sensitive and confidential nature of dealing with asylum applicants. Interpreters are aware of their role i.e. an interpreter is a conduit of information without being participative. I would advise the Deputy that I am satisfied with the interpretation facilities currently provided.