Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 November 2004
207 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application will be expedited for leave to remain here for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30867/04]
View answerThe person concerned, a Nigerian national, arrived in the State on 6 March 2000 and applied for asylum. Her claim for refugee status was refused on 25 June 2001. The applicant then appealed this decision and her appeal was refused on 21 February 2002 and the original recommendation upheld.
Subsequently, in accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 she was informed by letter dated 21 February 2002 that is was proposed to make a deportation order in this case. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State, of leaving the State before an order was made or of consenting to the making of a deportation order.
Representations have been made to my Department requesting that the person concerned be allowed to remain in the State.
I expect the case file in this matter to be submitted to me shortly for decision, after consideration of a number of factors which are specified in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. These factors include considerations relating to the common good, the person's individual family and domestic circumstances and humanitarian consideration. Consideration will also be given to the prohibition on refoulement which is contained in section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 as amended. The person concerned will be notified of my decision as soon as possible.
