Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 9 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 6

Written Answers. - Refugee Status.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

343 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for refugee status for persons (details supplied) will be dealt with well in advance of the June 1999 deadline in view of the fact this will affect the entitlements of their daughter towards assistance with her third level education. [7474/99]

Brendan Howlin

Question:

351 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for persons (details supplied) for asylum will be processed as soon as possible; and when a final decision will be reached. [6830/99]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

358 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an immediate decision will be made on an application for refugee status for persons (details supplied) in order that their daughter who is sitting her leaving certificate in June 1999 can attend university; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6993/99]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 343, 351 and 358 together.

It is not the practice to comment publicly on individual applications for refugee status having regard to the fact that applications by their nature are made in confidence with an expectation by the applicant that such confidence will be preserved.

However, I can exceptionally confirm in this instance that the family was interviewed in relation to its application and a positive decision has been taken on the application. Official notification is on its way to the family concerned.