Vol. 570 No. 2
510 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on applications for refugee status on humanitarian grounds for persons (details supplied); if their applications can be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18820/03]
The asylum applications of the couple concerned have already been refused following consideration of their cases by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Office of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
The couple was served with notice of intention to deport them on 13 May 2003 and 30 May 2003 respectively and afforded three options: return home voluntarily; consent to deportation or; make representations for temporary leave to remain in the State.
Applications for temporary leave to remain in the State were submitted by their legal representatives and their cases are currently being considered under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999. They will be informed when a decision has been made in their case.
I should say that in the event of temporary leave to remain being refused, the couple will be served with deportation orders which will require them to leave the State and remain outside it thereafter. The option of voluntary return to Poland is still available to them should they wish to exercise it.
