Refugee Status.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 March 2004

Tuesday, 23 March 2004

Questions (485)

Brendan Howlin

Question:

482 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for refugee status for persons (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8571/04]

Written answers

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The family referred to by the Deputy has been refused refugee status in the State following consideration of their case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

In accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, the family was informed that it was proposed to make deportation orders in respect of them and was given the following options: to make written representations within 15 working days to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform setting out reasons they should not be deported or why they should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; to voluntarily leave the State; or to consent to deportation. An application for leave to remain was received from the family's legal representatives. I expect the case file to be submitted to me shortly for a decision in the case.