Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Mar 2002

Vol. 551 No. 4

Written Answers. - Deportation Orders.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

190 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the deteriorating situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo, he will ensure that no deportations which would place political activists at risk will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10255/02]

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

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 88 on the 23 May 2001. Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996, incorporates the principle of non-refoulement which means that a person shall not be expelled from the State or returned in any manner whatsoever to a State where, in the opinion of the Minister, the life or freedom of that person would be threatened on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion.

In view of the history of political instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I can assure the Deputy that matters there are kept under constant review prior to any decision being made on deporting any person, including political activists. However, I should add that I have been informed that other EU countries are returning persons to particular areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo as there are indications that stability is returning to areas under the rule of central Government.

In addition to section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996, the provisions of section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, are taken into account in all cases where the making of a deportation order is being considered, including those of political activists.