Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 July 2017
64. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to examine the restrictions on visa applications from Libyan citizens, especially those in the medical professions who have offers of employment here, in view of the problems in retaining and recruiting staff in hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32973/17]
View answer75. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to review the visa restriction on Libyan citizens, especially medical professionals who are facing delays and refusals on visa applications despite being offered work in hospitals here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32969/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 64 and 75 together.
Deputies will know that certain restrictions have been in place since August 2014 due to the political and security situation in Libya. My predecessor indicated recently that these would be reviewed by officials to consider if there may be some scope to extend the categories of applicants who may be considered for visa processing.
That review has been completed and I am advised that all relevant considerations included the ongoing security situation in Libya (which unfortunately remains volatile), the potential economic impact of these restrictions and overall security considerations for the State. Ultimately, an appropriate balance must be struck between State security and individual applicants who wish to come here.
Taking all this into account, the Tánaiste decided that that the existing approach continue to be taken to processing those visa applications which we are prepared to consider, and therefore the current restrictions should remain in place for a further six months. The position will continue to be kept under review with consideration being given to any scope to extend the categories of applicants who may be considered for visa processing.
