Written Answers Nos. 364-383
364. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to amend the personal insolvency legislation to ensure that persons who fall into mortgage arrears can avail of personal insolvency arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7996/20]
View answerThe Insolvency Acts 2012 to 2015 already provide for a number of mechanisms to help individuals who are unable to pay their debts by reason of insolvency, namely Debt Relief Notices, Debt Settlement Arrangements and Personal Insolvency Arrangements (which apply to people with secured debts such as mortgages and unsecured debt).
In practice, the insolvency legislation has already been extensively reviewed and developed since 2012. Key reforms introduced include the section 115A court review process (which removed the so-called ‘bank veto’) enacted in 2015, interlocking reforms to bankruptcy also enacted in 2015, and the establishment in 2016, and extension in 2019, of the Abhaile Mortgage Resolution Service in effect ensures that borrowers at risk of losing their homes due to mortgage arrears can access free independent expert financial and legal advice and in certain cases legal aid.
Nevertheless, we have always said that we will keep this important legislation under review, and will take any further action needed to ensure that it operates effectively. My Department is currently engaged in preparatory work for two sets of legislative changes to the legislation.
Firstly, my officials are considering certain specific formal or procedural statutory requirements which may be difficult or impracticable to comply with due to COVID-19 restrictions, including a small number of requirements under the Personal Insolvency Acts. Subject to Government formation and to reconstitution of both Houses of the Oireachtas, the intention is to bring forward for Government approval, a short urgent Bill, in order to make any necessary amendments as soon as possible.
Secondly, my officials are already working to complete the major statutory review of the Personal Insolvency Acts, following the earlier public consultation already held, and now, in addition, to ensure that this review will also take full account of the latest developments and particularly, the significant economic effects of the Covid-19 outbreak.
I expect the review report to be finalised by September, following further consultations with the Department of Finance, as required by s. 141 of the Acts, and with the Office of the Attorney General. That timetable, as the Deputy will appreciate, is of course subject to the legislative priorities that will be decided in the new Programme for Government.
365. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the position in relation to students from abroad whose studies were interrupted who wish to return to complete their studies and whose visas have since expired; if they will be permitted to return to complete their studies; the documentation required to facilitate same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8036/20]
View answerThe Deputy may be aware that, on 13 May 2020, I announced that immigration permissions due to expire between 20 May and 20 July 2020 will be automatically extended for two months. Any permission which was renewed by an earlier notice of 20 March 2020 and which therefore has a new expiry date between 20 May 2020 and 20 July 2020 is also renewed. Provided the person otherwise meets the conditions set out in the notices, this exceptional temporary measure also applies to non-nationals currently outside the State.
The extension means that they may continue to work if they wish, but must also re-enrol in an on-line course of study to adhere to the conditions of their permission.
My Department has engaged with MEI (Marketing English in Ireland), the representative body for the majority of language schools in Ireland. MEI have confirmed that most colleges are now offering on-line courses, and students should contact their college directly to make any necessary arrangements.
I can also inform the Deputy that I made a further announcement on 26 May 2020 setting out further measures to assist international students studying English in Ireland who have been impacted upon by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new measures are as follows:
- Students who left the State before completion of their studies due to COVID-19 may return and resume their studies and the duration of their absence will not count towards the two years maximum period of English language study allowed; and
- International English language students with a current, valid permission who are still in the State and who have completed the maximum two years permitted as a language student, but due to COVID-19 are unable to return home, may remain as students until the end of the year provided they re-enrol in an online course of study for the remainder of the year.
I understand and recognise the difficulties that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on all immigrants, and in particular our international student population. I was, therefore, pleased to be able to announce these new measures to support students, which I hope will provide some welcome assurance and certainty for the coming months. We will continue to keep the situation under active review as matters evolve in our national response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The renewal of permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach. This means, for instance, that students will need to ensure that they remain enrolled on their course of study.
Visa required students will need to apply for a visa before returning to the State if the validity period of the visa has expired. While the Immigration Service has temporarily ceased accepting new visa applications, persons legally resident in the State are included in the categories of Priority/Emergency cases, which will continue to be processed. Visa required students are advised to consult the Immigration Service website for the required documentation - www.inis.gov.ie.
I can also advise the Deputy that while both the Dublin area Registration Office in Burgh Quay and regional Registration Offices operated by An Garda Síochána remain temporarily closed, arrangements have been put in place for students awaiting first time registration, students who wish to change their permission applications and students who wish to avail of the Third Level Graduate Programme.
Additionally, my Department is considering alternative arrangements for renewal of registrations and priority will be given initially to those whose Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card has expired.
Further updates will be provided on the Immigration Service website when available, and I would encourage all students to regularly consult our updates on the Immigration Service website at:
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/COVID-19-updates-and-announcements.
A detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document is also available on this website on the impact of COVID-19 on immigration and international protection. This document is regularly updated.
367. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a decision will be expedited in the case of a person (details supplied). [8061/20]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that in light of the current uncertainties caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, COVID-19, I have announced that immigration and international protection permissions, due to expire between 20 May 2020 and 20 July 2020, have been automatically extended for two months.
This includes permissions that have already been extended by the previous notice, which extended permissions due to expire between 20 March 2020 and 20 May 2020 and includes Labour Market Access Permissions as long as the person has not received a final decision on their protection application. The renewal of permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions are attached. Employers can be directed to the Immigration Service website (www.inis.gov.ie) for confirmation of this.
The Registration Office in Burgh Quay and all Registration Offices for non-Dublin residents operated by An Garda Síochána remain temporarily closed due to COVID-19. Consequently, the requirement to present at a registration office to register a new permission or renew a current permission is also temporarily suspended.
Since mid-March, all Temporary Residence Cards (TRCs) that were due to expire were automatically renewed for a further two month period. Following the announcement on 20 May, applicants whose TRC is due for renewal between 27 March and 20 July will have a new card automatically issued to them to cover them for the period. The International Protection Office will send the new TRC to applicants by post so there is no need to present to the office in person for the purposes of renewal. Anyone who has concerns about their replacement card should contact the IPO customer help desk at info@ipo.gov.ie.
Further updates will be provided on the Immigration Service website when available, and I would encourage the Deputy to view our updates on the Immigration Service website at:
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/COVID-19-updates-and-announcements.
A detailed Frequently Asked Questions document on the COVID-19 impact on immigration and international protection can also be found on the website. This document is regularly updated.
368. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the work being carried out to support English language students here; if he has considered the suspension of student visas until September 2020 or such a point when face-to-face classes can be resumed; if he has considered a guarantee that time lost due to school closures will not count towards the total number of months permitted under a student visa; and if attendance at online classes will not be a visa requirement. [8090/20]
View answerThe Deputy may be aware that, on 13 May 2020, I announced that immigration permissions due to expire between 20 May and 20 July 2020 will be automatically extended for two months. Any permission, including student permission, which was renewed by the earlier notice of 20 March 2020 and which therefore had a new expiry date between 20 May 2020 and 20 July 2020 is also renewed, provided the person otherwise meets the conditions set out in the notices. This exceptional temporary measure also applies to non-nationals currently outside the State.
The extension means that students may continue to work if they wish, but must also re-enrol in an on-line course of study to adhere to the conditions of their permission. The renewal of a permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach. This means, for instance, that students will need to ensure that they remain enrolled on their course of study.
My Department has engaged with MEI (Marketing English in Ireland), the representative body for the majority of language schools in Ireland. MEI have confirmed that most colleges are now offering on-line courses, and students should contact their college directly to make any necessary arrangements.
I wish to assure the Deputy that I understand and recognise the difficulties that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on all immigrants, and in particular our international student population.
I announced yesterday, 26 May, that students who are still in the State and who have completed their maximum 2 years language study, but due to COVID-19 are unable to return home at this time, may remain as students until the end of the year provided they re-enrol in an online course of study for the remainder of the year. They will have to register the permission as usual once the Registration Offices reopen.
I also announced that language students who left the State before completion of their studies due to COVID-19, may resume their studies and the duration of their absence will not count towards the maximum period of study allowed.
I hope these new measures will provide some welcome assurance and certainty for the coming months and we will continue to keep the situation under active review as matters evolve in our national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. These new measures are in addition to the previously announced, temporary arrangements put in place for students awaiting first time registrations, students who wish to change their permission and students who wish to avail of the Third Level Graduate Programme.
In previous announcements I also amended the rules around working hours and provided that where a school or college is physically closed due to COVID-19 students can work 40 hours per week instead of the previous 20 hours. However, as I announced on 13 May, it is a requirement that anyone seeking to remain in the State as a student has to re-enrol in an online course of study.
It should be noted that visa required students will be required to apply for a visa before returning to the State if the validity period of the visa has expired. While the Immigration Service has temporarily ceased accepting new visa applications, persons legally resident in the State are included in the categories of Priority/Emergency cases, which will continue to be processed. Visa required students are advised to consult the Immigration Service website for the required documentation - www.inis.gov.ie.
Additionally, my Department is considering alternative arrangements for renewal of registrations and priority will be given initially to those whose Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card has expired. Further updates will be provided on the Immigration Service website when available, and I would encourage all students to regularly consult our updates on the Immigration Service website at:
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/COVID-19-updates-and-announcements.
A detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document is available on this website on the impact of COVID-19 on immigration and international protection. This document is regularly updated.
369. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if an up-to-date risk assessment has been carried out in respect of managing the risk of Covid-19 entering the prison system and at the same time reducing the negative impact of these measures in the medium term on prisoners and prison life; if plans are in place to ensure sufficient capacity for quarantining within the prison system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8131/20]
View answer372. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps being taken as part of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business to ease the restrictions in prisons due to the Covid-19 pandemic on a phased basis; if a roadmap in this regard has been published; if so, the location of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8134/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 369 and 372 together.
I have previously set out the wide range of measures adopted by the Irish Prison Service, to address the risk presented by Covid-19 in a prison environment.
Guided by the advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), and consistent with the prison specific guidance for the management of Covid-19 issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) and guidance of the Council of Europe, measures introduced have included:
- The introduction of a basic health check, including taking of temperatures for all persons, including staff, entering prisons from 29 March;
- Suspension of physical family visits, replaced by the introduction of video visits;
- Quarantining for 14 days of all newly committed prisoners, in order to reduce the risk that a new committal who might be incubating the virus could spread Covid-19 to the general prison population;
- Isolation of suspected case or prisoner with symptoms to prevent the risk of transmission of infection;
-“cocooning” of vulnerable prisoners, including all prisoners aged 70 years or more or those who are deemed medically vulnerable;
- comprehensive training for IPS staff and the provision of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) across the prison estate;
- strong communication with staff and prisoners, including two prison newsletters published weekly and regular Covid-19 information leaflets for prisoners and newsletters for staff regarding actions taken; and
- establishment of a robust contract tracing model which has been acknowledged by the World Health Organization as best practice.
The strategy employed by the Irish Prison Service to control the risks arising during this pandemic has to date been successful, thanks to the detailed planning carried out and the cooperation and understanding of all concerned, including both staff and prisoners. I understand that, as of 26 May 2020, there has been no positive prisoner case of Covid-19 within the Irish prison service.
I understand that the Irish Prison Service continues to manage the risks and challenges faced in a prison context during the Covid-19 pandemic in line with public health guidelines. In doing so, it maintains a close working relationship with my Department, relevant criminal justice authorities, the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) and the Health Service Executive (HSE).
As the Deputy will appreciate, the classification of prisoners as a vulnerable group by the NPHET means that the Irish Prison Service must exercise an abundance of caution in relation to the unwinding of the measures which are currently in place to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading in our prisons.
I am assured by the Irish Prison Service that its Emergency Response Planning Team is continually updating contingency plans in relation to Covid-19. I am further informed that these contingency plans are, by their nature, highly operational and are subject to change given the multiple scenarios that are possible. I am assured that the Irish Prison Service will publicise changes and plans in a timely manner, as the situation develops.
Specifically in relation to the Deputy’s query on risk assessments, I am informed that, in the context of declining rates of infection in the community, the Irish Prison Service is currently carrying out a risk assessment to determine when and how the restrictions put in place in recent months may be eased, while also ensuring that it maintains control of the risk of the spread of infection and ensures good order and security in the prisons.
I understand that the risk assessment currently being undertaken includes the following elements:
- Reviewing the physical access in-reach services provided to the prisons, including psychology, education, chaplaincy and addiction counsellors. In terms of current arrangements it may be noted that to mitigate against the impact of these services not being available in a traditional manner, I understand the Prison Service has put in place a dedicated phone service for prisoners to reach out to chaplains, psychologists and addiction counsellors and that it has increased the use of technology to ensure these essential services continue.
- Reviewing at what stage and how physical visits with families may resume, while maintaining controls at point-of-entry to screen for the infection; maintaining social distancing in the waiting rooms and during visits. Pending any change and as the Deputy may be aware, additional phone calls have been provided to prisoners and a facility for family video-link calls has also been put in place.
- Reviewing the regime management plans in place, which restrict the movement of prisoners around the prison and impacts out-of-cell and yard time. Again it should be noted that to mitigate against the negative impact of the more restricted regimes in place during the current Covid-19 pandemic, I am informed that the Prison Service has ensured that gym facilities for prisoners remain opened, albeit on a reduced schedule and has taken a range of other measures including for example installation of additional TV channels for prisoners in their cells and issuance of a weekly newsletter to prisoners providing information on what the Irish Prison Service is doing and why.
- I am also informed that the Prison Service is working with the HSE to put in place a process that will facilitate the testing of all new committals to the prisons at an early stage, which will allow for the prisoner to exit quarantine and enter the general population at an earlier stage, provided test results are negative.
Finally, the Deputy may wish to be aware that the Irish Prison Service has assured me that it is at all times cognisant of the impact of its decisions on people in custody. This impact is taken into account at all times, including at every stage of the planning process and the implementing of actions necessary to control and mitigate against the risk of Covid-19 in the prison environment.
370. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reduction in the prison population needed to ensure that there are adequate facilities available to deal with a possible outbreak of Covid-19 in the prison system; the criteria being used to determine Covid-19-related early releases to reduce overcrowding in the prison system; if this is purely risk based; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8132/20]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, Covid-19 provides unique challenges to custodial institutions, including our prisons. I have previously set out the wide range of measures adopted by the Irish Prison Service, to address the risk presented by Covid-19 in a prison environment.
Guided by the advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), and consistent with the prison specific guidance for the management of Covid-19 issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and guidance of the Council of Europe, measures introduced have included:
- The introduction of a basic health check, including taking of temperatures for all persons, including staff, entering prisons from 29 March;
- Suspension of physical family visits, replaced by the introduction of video visits;
- Quarantining for 14 days of all newly committed prisoners, in order to reduce the risk that a new committal who might be incubating the virus could spread Covid-19 to the general prison population;
- Isolation of suspected case or prisoner with symptoms to prevent the risk of transmission of infection;
- “cocooning” of vulnerable prisoners, including all prisoners aged 70 years or more or those who are deemed medically vulnerable;
- comprehensive training for IPS staff and the provision of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) across the prison estate;
- strong communication with staff and prisoners, including two prison newsletters published weekly and regular Covid-19 information leaflets for prisoners and newsletters for staff regarding actions taken; and
- establishment of a robust contract tracing model which has been acknowledged by the World Health Organization as best practice.
In addition and as the Deputy is aware, in March of this year, I approved actions to assist the Irish Prison Service in reducing the numbers of prisoners in custody.
In that context, the Irish Prison Service has been implementing measures to reduce the prison population, in order to ensure good infection control and to ensure that cells are available for the accommodation of any prisoner who may be required to isolate in accordance with guidance from the public health authorities.
In the first instance, the approach adopted included granting temporary release to low risk prisoners who were serving sentences of less than 12 months for non-violent offences. Subsequently, prisoners assessed as low risk who had less than 6 months to serve were also granted temporary release from some prisons.
I am informed that all prisoners granted temporary release were assessed on a case-by-case basis, utilising the existing criteria for temporary release. The primary factor in the consideration of any prisoner for early release remains public safety. Risks assessed included any convictions for domestic abuse, such as breach of barring orders which present significant risks at the present time. I am informed that other criteria taken into account include the nature and gravity of the offence, length of sentence served to date, prior record on temporary release, behaviour while in custody and previous criminal history.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the size of the prison population changes on a daily basis, as new committals and remands are made by the courts and releases occur as prisoners reach the end of their sentences. However, I am informed by the Irish Prison Service that the prison population has reduced from a total of 4,214 on 12 March 2020 to a total of 3,755 on 26 May 2020. This represents a reduction of 459 or approximately 11% over the period. The range of measures introduced has therefore meant that the occupancy in many prisons has been reduced in order to support infection control and isolation measures as much as possible.
As the Deputy will appreciate, prisoners are considered a particularly vulnerable group and an outbreak of Covid-19 would present significant challenges for prison management in terms of controlling the spread among other inmates and prison staff. However the strategy employed by the Irish Prison Service to control the risks arising during this pandemic has to date been successful, thanks to the detailed planning carried out and the cooperation and understanding of all concerned, including both staff and prisoners. I understand that, as of 26 May 2020, there has been no positive prisoner case of Covid-19 within the Irish prison service.
I understand that the Irish Prison Service continues to manage the risks and challenges faced in a prison context during the Covid-19 pandemic in line with public health guidelines. In doing so, it maintains a close working relationship with my Department, relevant criminal justice authorities, NPHET and the HSE.
371. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the steps taken to ensure in the absence of visits to prisons due to the Covid-19 pandemic that prisoners have continued access to their families by way of phone and video calls; if the enhanced facilities have been extended to all prisoners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8133/20]
View answerI have previously set out the wide range of measures adopted by the Irish Prison Service, to address the risk presented by Covid-19 in a prison environment. The measures adopted have been guided by the advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), and consistent with the prison specific guidance for the management of Covid-19 issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) and guidance of the Council of Europe.
I understand that the Irish Prison Service is acutely aware of the supportive role that families and friends play in prisoners’ efforts to rehabilitate themselves while in prison and in their preparation for life in the community after release from prison. I am advised that every effort was made to continue to facilitate physical family visits for as long as it was safe to do so and that physical visits were only ceased following the Government announcement in March, preventing all non-essential travel.
As I have previously set out, in recognition of the impact of visitor restrictions on prisoners, the Irish Prison Service introduced a number of initiatives to allow families to continue to communicate and support those in custody including through:
- The provision of additional phone calls for prisoners;
- The introduction of virtual visits, through the installation of video phone facilities in all prisons to allow for video-calls with families; and
- The introduction of Electronic Funds Transfer and An Post Bill Pay service to allow families to continue to lodge money to prisoner accounts.
I understand that the introduction of the new video visits system has allowed prisoners to continue to maintain important communication with their families. I am informed that to date feedback from prisoners and families that have used the system successfully has been very positive. I am also informed that, as with any new system and process, and especially one that is implemented within a very short time frame, there have been a number of challenges and technical issues with some calls but that the Prison Service continues to work on any issues to solve them. I understand that there have been particular difficulties in recent days, following a video phone software update which resulted in system crashes on a number of occasions in the past week. Resolution of this IT difficulty required temporary suspension of visits for a short time, but I understand that the system has now been restored. It is also the case that some issues may arise due to factors outside the control of the Irish Prison Service, which may include for example poor broadband coverage impacting connectivity for some visitors.
The Deputy may wish to note that useful “how to” guides are published on the Irish Prison Service website at www.irishprisons.ie for the information of people using the remote visit facilities. In addition, I understand that the Irish Prison Service has set up a dedicated helpline for the families of prisoners who may experience difficulty in connecting to a scheduled video call.
I am informed by the Irish Prison Service that where a scheduled video-call does not take place due to a technical problem, every effort is made to ensure that the prisoner is provided with the opportunity to have a normal phone call with their family member instead.
I am further informed that all new initiatives introduced have been risk assessed, to ensure there are measures in place to prevent the virus from spreading through prisoners sharing handsets or other equipment, and to ensure the maintenance of good order and security.
In the absence of direct contact from people in the outside community, I understand that the Irish Prison Service is at the same time taking steps to maintain good communication with prisoners and staff; and to allow prisoners to maintain human contact during these difficult times. I am informed that the Irish Prison Service has set up a dedicated team to co-ordinate the communication of information about the pandemic and its impact to prisoners.
I understand that two prisoner newsletters are published weekly, on a collaborative basis between the IPS, the Education and Training Board and the Irish Red Cross. Tailored regular communications with regular Covid-19 information leaflets for prisoners (developed by the prison Red Cross Prisoner Volunteers) and Covid-19 information newsletters for staff are being distributed to raise awareness of the particular risks the virus poses in a prison environment and to provide accessible updates on the necessary actions being taken. There is also a special newsletter for prisoners who are in quarantine or cocooning with tailored messaging for them. Prisoners who are in quarantine or cocooning can use the prisoner phone system to access prisoner services from Psychology, Chaplaincy, resettlement or Merchants Quay.
I understand that this system is being reviewed to ensure that it meets requirements and to assess if the service can be improved further. Further and in general, I understand that the Irish Prison Service continues to manage the risks and challenges faced in a prison context during the Covid-19 pandemic in line with public health guidelines. In doing so, it maintains a close working relationship with my Department, relevant criminal justice authorities, the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) and the Health Service Executive (HSE).
374. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and percentage of the Garda fleet of vehicles within the Clare division that are less than one, one to three, four to six, six to ten and more than ten years' old, in tabular form. [8147/20]
View answerThe Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management and control of An Garda Síochána and for the effective and efficient use of Garda resources. This includes responsibility for allocation of Garda vehicles, in accordance with operational demand. As Minister, I have no role in that matter. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
I am informed by Garda authorities that as of 21 May 2020 there were 53 vehicles assigned to the Clare Division. The following table, furnished to me by the Garda authorities, sets out the age of the Clare Divisional fleet, including the percentage of vehicles in each age bracket.
|
Clare Divisional Fleet Age of Vehicle |
Number of Vehicles |
% of Divisional Vehicles (rounded) |
|
< 1 Year |
6 |
11.3 |
|
1 to 3 Years |
19 |
35.9 |
|
4 to 6 Years |
13 |
24.5 |
|
6 to 10 Years |
13 |
24.5 |
|
Over 10 years |
2 |
3.8 |
|
Total |
53 |
100 |
The Deputy may also be interested to know that significant capital investment is being made in An Garda Síochána, including a total of €46 million specifically for the Garda fleet between 2016 and 2021. Of this investment, a total of €9 million has been made available for purchase and fit-out of additional Garda vehicles in 2020.
The number and type of vehicles to be purchased with this allocation as well as the Divisions to which those new vehicles will be assigned are entirely a matter for the Garda Commissioner. However this continuing investment is intended to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit-for-purpose fleet and that Gardaí can be mobile, visible and responsive on the roads and in the community to prevent and tackle crime.
It may also be of interest to the Deputy to know that, in order to protect the ongoing availability of vehicles and in anticipation of impacts of public health restrictions on motor factory or fit-out workplaces in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic, 94 additional vehicles were purchased by the Garda authorities in March 2020 at a cost of €2.4million and associated fit-out costs of €600,000. I am further advised that 210 hired vehicles have been allocated nationwide at this time, at a monthly hire cost €45,545, excluding fuel and other costs.
375. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the current level of staffing in An Garda Síochána in counties Longford and Westmeath by rank and station. [8151/20]
View answerThe Garda Commissioner is statutorily responsible for the management of An Garda Síochána, including personnel matters and deployment of resources. As Minister, I have no responsibility for these matters. I am assured however that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to their optimum use.
The resources provided by Government to An Garda Síochána have reached unprecedented levels, with an allocation for 2020 of €1.88 billion. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff and as a result, An Garda Síochána is a growing organisation.
There are now approximately 14,700 Gardaí nationwide, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff and these numbers are continuing to grow. Taken together, this increase in the number of both Garda members and staff is delivering a significant increase in operational policing hours nationwide.
A detailed breakdown of Garda numbers is available on my Department's website, for the convenience of the public. This information is updated every month with the latest data provided by An Garda Síochána. Details on the overall number of Garda members assigned to Garda Divisions throughout the State, including the Roscommon/Longford and Westmeath Divisions, are available at the following link: http://justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Workforce.
Details in relation to the number of Garda staff are also available on my Department's website at the following link: http://justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Staff.
376. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there are discussions ongoing regarding the potential redistribution of resources and or the full-time reopening of Kilbeggan Garda station, County Westmeath. [8152/20]
View answerThe Garda Commissioner is by law responsible for the management and control of An Garda Síochána and for the effective and efficient use of Garda resources. This includes responsibility for allocation of personnel and deployment of resources as well as matters such as the opening hours of Garda stations. As Minister, I have no role in these operational decisions. I am assured, however, that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities, to ensure their optimum use.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí stationed in Kilbeggan Garda Station as of 30 April 2020 was 3. It is also important to be clear that, as is the case in all locations, additional Garda resources are available in the location referred to by the Deputy by way of Garda Divisional and National Units, where required by operational need.
The resources provided to An Garda Síochána have reached unprecedented levels, with an allocation for 2020 of €1.88 billion. This level of funding is enabling sustained, ongoing recruitment of Garda members and staff and as a result, An Garda Síochána is a growing organisation. There are now over 14,700 Gardaí nationwide, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff and these numbers are continuing to grow. Taken together, this increase in the number of Garda members and staff is delivering a significant increase in operational policing hours nationwide.
A detailed breakdown of Garda numbers is available on my Department’s website. This information is updated every month with the latest data provided by An Garda Síochána. Information on Garda members is available at the following link:
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/002_Garda_Numbers_by_Division_District_and_Station_2009_to_March_2020.xlsx/Files/002_Garda_Numbers_by_Division_District_and_Station_2009_to_March_2020.xlsx.
Information on Garda staff, the Garda Workforce and other facts and figures are available from the following links:
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Workforce
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/An_Garda_Siochana_facts_and_figures.
377. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of passengers who arrived through airports and seaports to date in May 2020; and the number who filled out public health passenger locator forms. [8177/20]
View answerThe passenger numbers for arrivals into Irish Airports and Seaports for May 2020 set out in the table have been provided by the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.
It should be noted that there will be a variance in the total passenger numbers versus the number of Public Health Passenger Locator Forms collected. This is due to the different data collection methods used by both Departments and that one Public Health Passenger Locator form may be used by family units/groups who intend to self-isolate together.
The Passenger arrivals data for airports from 1 May 2020 to 22 May 2020 are as follows:
|
Airport |
Passenger Arrivals |
|
Dublin |
11,671 |
|
Cork |
657 |
|
Shannon |
8 |
|
Kerry |
55 |
|
Donegal |
62 |
|
Total |
12,453 |
The precise total passenger arrivals into Irish Sea Ports are not available at this time. However the weekly combined totals of arriving and departing passenger were provided by the Irish Maritime Development Office (IMDO) up to 17 May. These are total passenger numbers on the Central, Southern and Continental routes. These figures are outlined below and represent combined arrival and departure numbers. On average, there tends to be an even divide between arrival and departure numbers but a precise breakdown will be available from the Central Statistics Office in the coming weeks.
For the information of the Deputy, an explanation of the route corridors is as follows:
- Central corridor (sailings from Dublin to Heysham, Liverpool and Holyhead)
- Southern Corridor (sailings from Rosslare to Pembroke and Fishguard)
- Continental Corridor (sailings from Ireland to the European Continent)
For the duration of the crisis the CSO will be publishing monthly Air and Sea Travel Statistics . The March figures were released on 13 May 2020. This release will publish the total number of persons arriving in Ireland from overseas and departing Ireland for overseas destinations. This information will be broken down by mode (air or sea), route (cross-channel, continental, etc.,) and staging country.
Total Passengers departing and arriving at Irish Sea Ports
|
Date Range |
27 April to 3 May |
4 May to 10 May |
11 May to 17 May |
|
Central |
1,433 |
1,871 |
2,380 |
|
Southern |
345 |
411 |
788 |
|
Continental |
455 |
695 |
1,133 |
|
Total |
2,234 |
2,977 |
4,301 |
Border Management Unit Immigration Officers at Dublin Airport, on behalf of the Health Authorities, commenced recording Passenger Locator Forms on 28 April 2020. These contacts were made as part of public health passenger checks under measures related to the Covid-19 pandemic. BMU currently only collect the Passenger Locator forms for Dublin Airport. The Garda National Immigration (GNIB) manage the compliance for the other ports after which the Passenger Locator forms are forwarded to the BMU in Dublin Airport, who also carry out the follow-up calls for those ports.
Dublin Airport:
The table below gives a breakdown of the total expected forms and the number completed during the period 01 May 2020 to 23 May 2020. It should be noted that the number of arrivals differs from the number of expected forms due to the fact that only one form is required per family.
|
Dublin Airport |
01/05/20 - 23/05/20 |
|
Total Expected Forms* |
10,875 |
|
Completed Forms Received |
7,799 |
|
*only one form completed per family |
Other Ports:
Forms for Other Ports are delivered to BMU at Dublin Airport for follow up action. As mentioned, BMU hold no records of the numbers of arrivals (expected forms). The data below includes numbers of forms received by BMU for follow-up action and of them the number who were exempt and therefore no follow-up action was required.
|
Dublin Port |
28/04/2020 - 21/05/2020 |
|
Total Forms Received by BMU |
6,044 |
|
Exempt |
5,171 |
|
Percentage Exempt |
86% |
|
Rosslare Port |
01/05/2020 - 19/05/2020 |
|
Total Forms Received by BMU |
1,545 |
|
Exempt |
1,273 |
|
Percentage Exempt |
82% |
|
Cork Airport |
29/04/2020 - 19/05/2020 |
|
Total Forms Received by BMU |
391 |
|
Exempt |
112 |
|
Percentage Exempt |
29% |
378. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the level of compliance of passengers who arrived here in filling out the public health passenger locator form since it was introduced; the number who filled it in; the number who refused; and the number exempt as a total of the number of passengers who have arrived. [8178/20]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that Border Management Unit Immigration Officers at Dublin Airport, on behalf of the Health Authorities, commenced recording Passenger Locator Forms on 28 April 2020. These contacts were made as part of public health passenger checks under measures related to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Two calls are made to passengers following their arrival into the State, providing a Public Health Passenger Locator Form is completed. The calls are to confirm that the passenger is still residing at the address they provided on the form and to confirm if the passenger is self-isolating. Passengers are required to self-isolate for 14 days after they arrive into the State, and this includes Irish Residents.
The first call is made two days after the person’s arrival in the State. The second call is made twelve days after their arrival and where the person has indicated that their stay in Ireland would be for more than twelve days.
It is important to note that the BMU currently only collect the Passenger Locator forms for Dublin Airport. The Garda National Immigration (GNIB) manage the compliance for the other ports after which the Passenger Locator forms are forwarded to the BMU in Dublin Airport, who also carry out the follow-up calls for those ports.
At this time, the only data available that addresses all the questions raised by the Deputy refers to Dublin Airport. However, I have included data on the number of forms received and the percentage exempt for other Ports. We are unable to provide arrivals figures (expected forms) or numbers on those who refused to complete the form for other Ports. That information is being gathered from GNIB and will be forwarded to the Deputy when available.
Dublin Airport:
It should be noted that the number of actual arrivals differs from the number of expected forms due to the fact that only one form is required per family. Therefore the table below gives a breakdown of the total expected forms and of them the number that were completed and the number who refused to complete. The number exempt did complete a form but were exempt from the follow-up action and the requirement to self-isolate. The period covers 28 April 2020 up to 21 May 2020 inclusive and represents a compliance rate of more than 98%.
|
Dublin Airport |
28/04/2020 - 21/05/2020 |
|
Arrivals (Expected Forms) |
10,173 |
|
Completed Forms Received |
7,182 |
|
% Forms Compliance |
71% |
|
Passenger Declared No Form Provided by Airline |
2,779 |
|
Language Barrier |
26 |
|
Refused to Complete Form |
186 |
|
Percentage Exempt of Completed Forms |
2367 (33%) |
Other Ports: Forms for Other Ports are delivered to BMU at Dublin Airport for follow up action. As mentioned, BMU hold no records of the numbers of arrivals (expected forms) nor the number who refused to complete the forms for other ports. The data below includes numbers of forms received by BMU for follow-up action and of them the number who were exempt and therefore no follow-up action was required. The returns from other Ports are often inconsistent and therefore we are unable to provide data for Shannon Airport. In addition the period for each Port differs due to the logistics of the forms arriving from each location.
|
Dublin Port |
28/04/2020 - 21/05/2020 |
|
Total Forms Received by BMU |
6,044 |
|
Exempt |
5,171 |
|
Percentage Exempt |
86% |
|
Rosslare Port |
01/05/2020 - 19/05/2020 |
|
Total Forms Received by BMU |
1,545 |
|
Exempt |
1,273 |
|
Percentage Exempt |
82% |
|
Cork Airport |
29/04/2020 - 19/05/2020 |
|
Total Forms Received by BMU |
391 |
|
Exempt |
112 |
|
Percentage Exempt |
29% |
379. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8179/20]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that the person concerned has been granted permission to remain on Stamp 1 conditions until 30 September 2020. This decision was conveyed in writing to the person concerned on 13 May 2020.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the email service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
380. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the join family visa applications in the case of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8180/20]
View answerThe join family visa applications referred to by the Deputy were submitted to the Visa Office in Abuja, Nigeria on 7 March 2019. They were subsequently received by the Dublin Visa office on 20 January 2020, for further processing, in accordance with the guidelines set out in the Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification.
The Policy Document contains a stated business target that visa applications to join non-EEA national family members should be dealt with within twelve months of receipt of application. However, it should be noted that this is a business target and does not constitute a legal obligation. The business target reflects the detailed and often complex assessment that is required to be carried out in relation to applications for family reunification.
It is not possible to give a definitive date as to when these applications will be finalised. All applications are processed in chronological order, based on date order of receipt. While every effort is made to process applications as soon as possible, processing times will vary having regard to the volume and complexity of applications, the possible need for the Visa Office to investigate, inquire into, or seek further information, and the resources available.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the way the Immigration Services (ISD) of the Department conduct its business. In line with advice issued by Government, HSE and the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), ISD has implemented a suite of measures to help in reducing the spread of the virus. These measures include the closure of our offices in Burgh Quay and the implementation of remote working for Immigration Services staff in order to comply with social and physical distancing measures. Unfortunately, these measures have led to a reduction in processing capacity. While delays are expected including in the processing of family reunification visa applications, ISD is endeavouring to keep operating to the best of its ability.
Further updates will be provided on the Immigration Service website when available, and I would encourage the Deputy to view the updates and the detailed Frequently Asked Questions document on the Immigration Service website at:
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/COVID-19-updates-and-announcements.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
In addition, applicants may themselves e-mail queries directly to visamail@justice.ie.
381. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status in the case of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8181/20]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that, in response to a notification pursuant to the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), written representations have been submitted on behalf of the persons concerned.
These representations, together with all other information and documentation on file, will be fully considered, under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and all other applicable legislation, in advance of a final decision being made.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
382. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8182/20]
View answerI am informed that both visit visa applications made by the person referred to by the Deputy were refused for reasons outlined in the decision letter at the time of refusal. It was open to the person concerned, to appeal those decisions within two months of the decision date, however no appeals were received in respect of these applications. Currently there are no records of any subsequent visa applications in respect of the person concerned.
It is open to the person concerned to submit a fresh application to my Department at any time. However, in doing so, they should take into account the reasons for refusal of their previous applications and submit supporting documentation to address same. The onus is on all visa applicants to satisfy the Visa Officer as to why a visa should be granted.
As part of the efforts to tackle COVID-19 and to ensure customer safety, my Department took the decision to temporarily cease accepting new visa applications, with the exception of certain priority/emergency applications, effective from close of business 20 March 2020. This situation will continue to be kept under review in consultation with the relevant authorities.
While it is still possible to apply for an Irish visa online in the normal manner, these temporary measures mean that applicants will not be able to complete their application process. However, any application made online will remain valid until such time as restrictions are lifted.
My Department intends to resume accepting applications as soon as safety concerns abate. Applicants are encouraged to check our website regularly for any updates at the following link:
http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/COVID-19-updates-and-announcement.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
383. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8187/20]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that an application for a renewal of permission to remain has been received from the person concerned. This application is under consideration at present and when a decision is made, the person will be notified in writing.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the email service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
