Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 May 2006
444 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will reconsider the refusal of a visa for a child (details supplied) to join their parents and brother here; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the child’s mother is employed and a taxpayer here; his views on whether it is acceptable to prohibit access for a six year old to their family here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18428/06]
View answerThe application referred to by the Deputy was received in my Department on 24th January, 2005. The decision of the visa officer to refuse this application was made on 8th February, 2005. An appeal was received on 10th March, 2005 and the decision to refuse was upheld on 7th April, 2005.
A new scheme to facilitate family reunification in respect of non-national workers resident in the State was approved by the Government with effect from February, 2006. It is likely that this application would be encompassed by the changes introduced by this scheme. In this regard, it will be necessary for the applicant to make a fresh application, which will be assessed in accordance with the new arrangements. Details of the new scheme are available on my Department's website (www.justice.ie).
