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International Protection

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020

Wednesday, 3 June 2020

Questions (383)

Catherine Connolly

Question:

383. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if consideration has been given to granting permission to remain to the approximately 150 healthcare workers in the protection process in the event that they receive a negative refugee or subsidiary protection application decision in view of the fact that they have undertaken and continue to undertake vital healthcare work during this time of the Covid-19 pandemic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9224/20]

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Written answers

My Department looks at all international protection applications made in the State on a case by case basis in accordance with the legislation, the International Protection Act 2015.  Each consideration takes into account a number of factors as set out in section 49 of the Act.

If an applicant fails in their International Protection claim, they may seek humanitarian leave to remain. Permission to remain is also considered under the International Protection Act 2015. Under the Act, when I am making a decision on whether to grant an applicant permission to remain in the State, I must consider any information submitted by the applicant throughout the process plus the nature of their connection to the State.  A person’s character and conduct is taken into consideration.  Also, an applicant’s private and family rights are examined in accordance with the Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights and a complete refoulement assessment is carried out to ensure that the conditions in an applicant’s relevant country of origin allow for their safe return.  

Furthermore, it should be noted that all decisions at each stage of the process may be subject to review by the High Court.

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