Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 3

Written Answers. - Passports for Investment Scheme.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

334 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the members of the Government or Ministers of State between 1988 and 1994 who gave advice to the then Minister for Justice in accordance with paragraph (b) of the statement of intent issued in respect of the passports for investment scheme or in respect of any potential applicant for naturalisation or otherwise supported an application for citizenship under the scheme; if he will give full details in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6221/99]

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

Paragraph (b) of the statement of intent refers only to the advice of a Minister of the Government, not a Minister of State. The Departmental files related to the 128 naturalisations granted under the scheme, which cover the period referred to by the Deputy, are with the Moriarty tribunal at present. In these circumstances, it is considered impracticable to try to ascertain the information sought by the Deputy. When the files are returned to my Department, I will write to the Deputy and let him have information about advice given by Ministers of Government under paragraph (b) of the statement of intent.