Written Answers Nos. 309-333
309. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the phase in the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business that house viewing for prospective home buyers fits into (details supplied). [10725/20]
View answerThe Property Service and Valuation sector re-opened under phase two of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business on 8 June 2020.
Prior to the re-opening of the sector the Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA) in collaboration with the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) issued a Joint Sector Protocol For Property Services Providers.
The Joint Sector Protocol for Property Services Providers is intended to consolidate practical guidance available on the 18th of May 2020 on how to safely manage business continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
310. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the cost of securing the residence of the ambassador of the United States of America in the Phoenix Park; and the contribution to the costs made by the authorities of the United States of America. [10884/20]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, I have no role in the internal security arrangements of the United States diplomatic mission in Ireland. This is a matter for the United States authorities.
More generally, regarding the protection of diplomatic missions in the State, the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations provides for certain obligations to protect the premises of missions in the State.
All States parties to the Convention have committed to fulfilling this requirement and we expect the relevant receiving states to take all appropriate steps to protect the premises of Irish missions abroad.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that an Garda Síochána provide security at various locations including embassies, consulates and buildings occupied by foreign diplomatic missions based on the threat level. The allocation of Garda resources in this regard is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and I hope the Deputy will appreciate it would not be appropriate to elaborate on the detail for security reasons.
311. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to the issues raised in correspondence by a group (details supplied) regarding health and safety risks in a direct provision centre in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11108/20]
View answer353. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to issues raised in correspondence by a group (details supplied) regarding serious health and safety risks in a direct provision centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11066/20]
View answer367. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will issue an official response to correspondence from a group (details supplied) regarding serious issues in the direct provision centre in a town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11188/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 311, 353 and 367 together.
We are taking the issues raised in relation to this emergency accommodation premises extremely seriously. The welfare of residents is, at all times, our key concern.
On 4 June, officials from the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) of my Department held a clinic via video call with residents of the centre. This was attended by 12 of the 19 residents currently residing at the centre. The clinic was held off-site in the local Community Centre and was facilitated by a volunteer from the Limerick and Clare Educational Training Board (LCETB). Other than the residents and the facilitator, only the manager of the Community Centre and the caretaker were present onsite at the time. Each resident attended their own clinic appointment in a separate room away from the facilitator and the manager of the Community Centre to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
The majority of residents who attended the clinic stated they were happy with the food and with the accommodation in general. A small number of the residents who participated in the clinics stated that the food was not to their liking.
Following the clinics, an unannounced visit was made to the accommodation the next day (5 June 2020) by a senior official from my Department. During this visit, a number of issues raised in recent correspondence to my Office were investigated. I can confirm that during this visit all rooms were viewed and that no health and safety issues were identified. My officials will be following up with management and residents on any of the issues raised during the recent clinics.
Concerns had previously been raised with my Office around rodent activity on the premises and water leaking. I am advised that there was no evidence of any rodent activity or water leaking on the day my official visited. When questioned by my official on these matters, the owner confirmed that a resident had reported mice in his room in February. The owner engaged a pest control company who could not find any evidence of rodents. They subsequently monitored the room for three weeks and could not find any evidence of rodents. Regarding the water, I am advised that the owner confirmed that an incident occurred some months ago where water was leaking from a bath/shower on the second floor into a bedroom on the first floor. It was reported to him by the residents in the room and he sought to engage a plumber. One of the residents said he was a plumber and asked if he could fix it. It was addressed within a few hours and no reoccurrence of the leaking has been reported since.
Furthermore, my official identified no concerns about the quality or variety of food available during their visit. Food is prepared onsite by a professional chef and all meat is Halal certified. Residents also have use of the kitchen for special occasions and regularly cook meals of their choice from food supplied by management. Recently arrangements were also made, during Ramadan, for residents to use the kitchen at night.
I can also advise the Deputies that IPAS officials previously visited the premises unannounced on 13 February last, on foot of concerns raised by a local support group. During the course of this visit, they inspected all bedrooms and recreation rooms and the kitchen and dining facilities and they had lunch with the residents. I am advised that my officials did not find any major issues to report and the residents they spoke to did not raise any issues about the standard of the centre. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) also carried out a visit to the premises in February as part of a programme of visits to a variety of centres over a two week period. No specific issues were brought to my Department's attention regarding the premises arising from their visit.
Our intention is to accommodate all international protection applicants currently living in emergency accommodation in dedicated accommodation centres as soon as places become available. In the meantime, I hope that this information will provide you with some reassurance on the current situation in the location mentioned.
312. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if post mortems have been suspended during the Covid-19 crisis; if so, the date on which post mortems ceased; when they will recommence; if persons can request a post mortem to be carried out on a family member who has been buried; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11147/20]
View answerPost-mortem examinations have not been suspended during the Covid-19 crisis. There are guidelines regarding post-mortem practice on the both the Coroners Service and the Faculty of Pathology (RCPI)’s websites – www.coroners.ie and www.rcpi.ie.
As Covid-19 deaths are natural deaths, they do not require an autopsy. In most cases, a post mortem examination will not be required unless other circumstances are present and the law mandates an autopsy to be directed by the Coroner.
313. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if visas will be extended for Turkish nationals who came here to learn English but have since had their course postponed. [11234/20]
View answerOn 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 a person otherwise meets the conditions set out in the notices, this exceptional temporary measure also applies to non-nationals currently outside the State.
The renewal of permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach. For students, this extension means that they may continue to work if they wish, but they 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 made a further announcement on 26 May 2020, setting out further measures to assist international students studying English in Ireland who have been impacted 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.
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 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.
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.
314. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will urgently implement new standards for direct provision centres and carry out independent inspections of these settings. [11275/20]
View answerLast year, Minister Flanagan and I asked Dr. Catherine Day to bring together an expert group with representation from asylum seekers and NGOs to examine best practice in other European States in the provision of services to international protection applicants, to examine likely longer term trends and to set out recommendations and solutions. The Group is examining both the reception system for accommodating applicants and the system for processing applications, and is expected to make recommendations for changes in both areas. A briefing paper on the work of the group, prepared by the Chairperson to inform programme for government talks, has been circulated to members of both Houses of the Oireachtas.
The Briefing Note includes a list of measures, identified so far, which would immediately improve the situation of those currently in Direct Provision, and on which officials of the Department have been asked to prepare proposals for the incoming Government. The work of the group is advancing at pace and their report is expected by the end of September.
Minister Flanagan and I are happy that this Briefing Note signals far-reaching proposals and we were anxious to ensure that Dr. Day and her Group were free to make any recommendations they deemed appropriate based on an expert analysis.
Last year, we also established a high level Interdepartmental Group chaired by a senior official of my Department, to ensure that all Departments are proactively delivering on their responsibilities. The Group is reviewing the management of services for applicants for international protection and considering the short-to-medium term options which could be implemented to improve the system. Its Report has been finalised and is ready to be submitted to a new Government.
The system of Direct Provision refers to the suite of State services and supports that are provided by a range of Government Departments and agencies to persons seeking international protection in the State. It includes provision of medical cards, an exemption from prescription charges, access to education for children, a weekly payment, access to Exceptional Needs Payments, when required, and, of course, ensuring that all basic needs are met, like accommodation and food.
It is important note that significant efforts have been made to reform the system in recent years. Mr. Justice Bryan McMahon, whose report in 2015 has been the basis for introducing improvements to the system, has himself noted that the system has improved considerably compared to what it was five years ago.
Significant improvements made to the system in recent years include access to the services of the Ombudsman and the Ombudsman for Children; the introduction of labour market access; and the continued roll-out of self-catering facilities for residents (now available to more than half of all residents).
In August 2019, Minister Flanagan and I published new National Standards for accommodation centres. These Standards were developed through an Advisory Group including representatives from UNHCR Ireland and the NGO sector. The Standards will address a range of themes including accommodation; food and catering; individual, community and family life; health and wellbeing; governance; and meeting the special reception needs of applicants. These reforms build on the work done in the McMahon Report and meet the requirements of the EU Recast Reception Conditions Directive (Directive 2013/33/EU) which we voluntarily opted into in 2018. It is intended that the Standards will come into force in January 2021 when they will be subject to monitoring and inspection by an appropriate independent body.
315. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether the urgency for a nationally-coordinated domestic sexual and gender-based violence infrastructure that is political, legal and social has never been more important with clear high-level, integrated responsibility for policy and provision needing to be held at a national level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11350/20]
View answerI agree with the Deputy about the importance of this subject and my Department coordinates the Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence 2016 – 2021 which is a whole-of-Government approach addressing the many actions necessary to address these matters fully.
The Strategy includes input from relevant community and voluntary groups as well as other stakeholders across the sector. This is achieved through a Monitoring Committee composed of stakeholders from all sectors working together in partnership; as well as ongoing cooperation between the Department and frontline services and industry partners.
Overall, the Strategy aims to considerably strengthen the law and structures in Ireland targeting domestic, sexual and gender-based violence and considerable progress has been made in addressing these issues through the Strategy which facilitated the ratification by Ireland of the Istanbul Convention in 2019.
A central element of the progress to date has been the landmark Domestic Violence Act 2018, which came into force on 1 January 2019. Through creation of the offence of coercive control, the Act recognised in law the devastating impact that emotional abuse can have on those it is inflicted upon. The Act also improves victim’s access to barring orders and provides greater supports for victims in the court process, in areas such as court accompaniment and to be able to give evidence by live television link. Aggravating factors in sentencing are also now provided for.
Other significant legislative developments in this area include the enactment of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017, which introduced a statutory definition of consent, and the Criminal Justice (Victims of Crime) Act 2017, which provides a wide range of measures and services to protect and inform victims during the progress of their case through the criminal justice system.
A range of other relevant actions and projects are being pursued in this field, for example:
- my Department has agreed with the Central Statistics Office that it will conduct a major National Sexual Violence Prevalence Study, which will look in detail at the experience of women and men of sexual violence and abuse in Ireland, with repeat large scale surveys every decade, to provide a robust evidence-basis for Government policy;
- an independent study on domestic homicide and familicide is being carried out;
- Working Group review, chaired by Tom O'Malley, BL into the adequacy of measures available to protect vulnerable witnesses during the investigation and prosecution of sexual offences is nearing completion;
- public awareness campaigns have been organised on domestic abuse ("What would you do?" which ran from 2016-2018) and sexual violence ("No Excuses", which commenced in 2019 and is scheduled to run until 2021)
- an expanded Victims Charter has been published and is available on the website www.victimscharter.ie
- An Garda Síochána is also continuously improving its specialist services and Divisional Protective Services Units are now being rolled out with specially trained officers responsible for investigations, including engagement with victims. I understand that 16 DPSUs have now been rolled out in 15 Divisions nationwide.
I would stress that implementation of the Second National Strategy is monitored on an ongoing basis and actions may be added to it by agreement of the Monitoring Committee, which as mentioned is made up of representatives from state agencies and the community and voluntary sector.
The Deputy may also be interested to note that my Department is currently leading efforts to identify lessons which can be learned from the inter-agency plan which we put in place to address domestic abuse, in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. This process includes input from the community and voluntary sector working in this area. I hope and expect that this will offer the opportunity to further strengthen our national response to the issues of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.
Finally, the Deputy will also be aware that the draft Programme for Government contains a commitment to conduct an audit of statutory responsibilities in this area.
316. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the annual percentage of primary and secondary schools that have completed the yellow flag programme in each of the years 2009 and 2019; and the annual funding provided to the programme for the same period in tabular form. [11519/20]
View answerIn 2017, the Irish Traveller Movement was awarded a grant of €150,410 (75% of total project budget), under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, following a Call for Proposals launched in September 2016. The Yellow Flag Programme, a practical programme that supports primary and secondary schools to become more inclusive of all cultures and ethnicities, was one of the initiatives funded under this grant. The project ran from 1 February 2017 to 1 February 2019. It aimed to deliver the 8-step programme to 15 schools over the term of the grant agreement, but has actually delivered to 20 schools.
In 2019, the Irish Traveller Movement was awarded a grant of €156,750 (75% of planned project budget) under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, following a Call for Proposals launched in April 2019. The project was launched on 3 October 2019 and is scheduled to run until 30 September 2022, to deliver the Yellow Flag 8-step programme to a further 15 schools.
Details of specific funding for the Yellow Flag Programme for each of the years requested is attached in Table 1.
Table 2 shows the number of schools each year that were awarded the yellow flag (or renewed it), broken down between primary and secondary schools. Schools going through the yellow flag process at present have not been included.
317. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will intervene in the escalating situation in a direct provision centre (details supplied) in view of the fact that the safety of the 12 men is at risk; if he will make contact via teleconferencing software; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10481/20]
View answerWe are taking the issues raised in relation to this emergency accommodation premises extremely seriously. The welfare of residents is, at all times, our key concern. Any complaints or concerns regarding the health and safety of international protection applicants are taken extremely seriously by myself, Minister Flanagan and our officials.
On 4 June 2020, officials from the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) of my Department held a clinic via video call with residents of the centre. This was attended by 12 of the 19 residents currently residing at the centre. The clinic was held off-site in the Miltown Malbay Community Centre and was facilitated by a volunteer from the Limerick and Clare Educational Training Board (LCETB). Other than the residents and the facilitator, only the manager and the caretaker of the Community Centre were present at the time.
Each resident attended their own clinic appointment separately in a room away from the facilitator and the Community Centre personnel in order to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
A small number of the residents who participated in the clinics stated that the food was not to their liking. The majority of residents who attended the clinic stated they were happy with the food and with the accommodation in general. My officials will be following up with management and residents on any of the issues raised during the clinics.
Following the clinics, an unannounced visit was made to the accommodation the next day, 5 June 202, by a senior official from my Department. During this visit, a number of issues raised in recent correspondence to Minister Flanagan and myself were investigated. I can confirm that no health and safety issues were identified during this visit, during which all rooms were viewed.
Concerns had previously been raised with my Department around rodent activity on the premises and water leakage. I am advised that there was no evidence of any rodent activity or water leakage on the day my official visited. When questioned by my official on these matters, the owner confirmed that a resident had reported mice in his room in February. The owner engaged a pest control company who could not find any evidence of rodents. They subsequently monitored the room for three weeks and could not find any evidence of rodents. Regarding the matter of water leakage, I am advised that the owner confirmed that an incident occurred some months ago where water leaked from a bath/shower on the second floor into a bedroom on the first floor. It was reported to him by the residents in the room and he sought to engage a plumber. However, one of the residents said he was a plumber and asked if he could fix it. It was addressed within a few hours and no reoccurrence of the leak has been reported since.
Furthermore, my official identified no concerns about the quality or variety of food available during their visit. Food is prepared onsite by a professional chef and all meat is Halal certified. Residents also have use of the kitchen for special occasions and regularly cook meals of their choice from food supplied by management. Arrangements were also made during Ramadan recently for residents to use the kitchen at night.
I can also advise the Deputy that IPAS officials previously visited the premises unannounced on 13 February last, on foot of concerns raised by a local support group. During the course of this visit, they inspected all bedrooms and recreation rooms and the kitchen and dining facilities and they had lunch with the residents. I am advised that my officials did not find any major issues to report and the residents they spoke to did not raise any issues about the standard of the centre. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) also carried out a visit to the premises in February as part of a programme of visits to a variety of centres over a two week period. No specific issues were brought to my Department's attention regarding the premises arising from their visit.
Our intention is to accommodate all international protection applicants currently living in emergency accommodation in dedicated accommodation centres as soon as places become available.
318. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will publish a strategy to phase out direct provision as a method of dealing with those seeking asylum and safety here and those who wish to build a better future for themselves and their families. [10488/20]
View answer323. Deputy Emer Higgins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to reform the direct provision system and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10697/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 318 and 323 together.
Last year, Minister Flanagan and I asked Dr. Catherine Day to bring together an expert group with representation from asylum seekers and NGOs to examine best practice in other European States in the provision of services to international protection applicants, to examine likely longer term trends and to set out recommendations and solutions. The Group is examining both the reception system for accommodating applicants and the system for processing applications, and is expected to make recommendations for changes in both areas. A briefing paper on the work of the group, prepared by the Chairperson to inform programme for government talks, has been circulated to members of both Houses of the Oireachtas.
The Briefing Note includes a list of measures, identified so far, which would immediately improve the situation of those currently in Direct Provision, and on which officials of the Department have been asked to prepare proposals for the incoming Government. The work of the group is advancing at pace and their report is expected by the end of September.
Minister Flanagan and I are happy that this Briefing Note signals far-reaching proposals and we were anxious to ensure that Dr. Day and her Group were free to make any recommendations they deemed appropriate based on an expert analysis.
Last year, we also established a high level Interdepartmental Group chaired by a senior official of my Department, to ensure that all Departments are proactively delivering on their responsibilities. The Group is reviewing the management of services for applicants for international protection and considering the short-to-medium term options which could be implemented to improve the system. Its Report has been finalised and is ready to be submitted to a new Government.
The system of Direct Provision refers to the suite of State services and supports that are provided by a range of Government Departments and agencies to persons seeking international protection in the State. It includes provision of medical cards, an exemption from prescription charges, access to education for children, a weekly payment, access to Exceptional Needs Payments, when required, and, of course, ensuring that all basic needs are met, like accommodation and food.
It is important note that significant efforts have been made to reform the system in recent years. Mr. Justice Bryan McMahon, whose report in 2015 has been the basis for introducing improvements to the system, has himself noted that the system has improved considerably compared to what it was five years ago.
Significant improvements made to the system in recent years include access to the services of the Ombudsman and the Ombudsman for Children; agreed National Standards for accommodation providers; the introduction of labour market access; and the continued roll-out of self-catering facilities for residents (now available to more than half of all residents).
The new National Standards contain specific actions to improve the lives of children in accommodation centres. As well as the aforementioned access to the services of the Ombudsman for Children, they are also supported by the Child Protection Policies that we have put in place in the centres. In addition, there is a Tusla official seconded to my Department to work with our International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS). This ensures that any child protection issues are swiftly followed up and that the process for referrals is as streamlined as possible.
Currently, around 25% of residents (1,974 people) in the Direct Provision system have own door self-catered accommodation. While, at this time, all available accommodation of this type is fully utilised, families are prioritised when this type of accommodation becomes available.
It is to be noted that the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality, in its report on Direct Provision and the International Protection Application Process, published last December, found that there was no clear consensus from the Committee as to what alternatives could or ought to replace the current system. Their Report also acknowledged that any new system of reception and accommodation will need time to ensure the right system is put in place.
Finally, Minister Flanagan and I look forward to the completion of the work of Dr. Day’s expert group and the implementation of major changes, should the incoming Government accept the proposals.
319. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of gardaí in each station in counties Louth, Meath and Waterford, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10497/20]
View answerUnder the Garda Síochána Act 2005 as amended, the Garda Commissioner has responsibility for management of An Garda Síochána and for the allocation and efficient use of Garda resources. This includes responsibility for personnel matters and the distribution of personnel across the various Garda Divisions. As Minister I have no direct role in these matters. I understand 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.
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.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at 31 May 2020, there are now 14,700 Garda members nationwide, supported by over 3,000 Garda staff and these numbers are continuing to grow. This figure includes the Garda trainees from two separate intake classes who attested earlier than scheduled in March 2020, which was an operational decision taken by the Garda Commissioner in order to augment An Garda Síochána's capacity to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic.
A detailed breakdown of Garda numbers is available on my Department’s website and this information is updated every month with the latest data provided by An Garda Síochána. Information on the Garda Workforce is available at the following link: http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Workforce
In relation to Waterford, I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at 31 May 2020 there are 378 Gardaí assigned to the Waterford Division. I understand that this represents a significant increase of 96 Gardaí in the Division since the end of 2015. I am further informed by the Garda authorities that as at 31 May 2020 there are 343 Gardaí assigned to the Meath Division, representing an increase of 66 Gardaí in the Division since the end of 2015. Finally, in relation to Louth, I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at 31 May 2020 there are 399 Gardaí assigned to the Louth Division, representing an increase of 112 Gardaí in the Division since the end of 2015.
Detail in relation to Garda staff is also available on my Department's website at the following link:
http://www.justice.ie/en/JELR/Pages/Garda_Staff
320. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if changes (details supplied) will be implemented to the delivery of direct provision services to ensure that residents are fully protected during the Covid-19 crisis. [10499/20]
View answerMy Department, the HSE and centre management are doing everything that we can to protect the health and welfare of our residents and centre staff as well as that of the wider community at this time. We are working closely with the HSE in doing so, and while the HSE advice has evolved over time, we have been assured by both it and the Office of the Chief Medical Officer that our approach is appropriate.
All accommodation centres are carefully following the guidelines for our centres that have been published by the HSE’s Health Protection Surveillance Centre, which can be found on its website www.hpsc.ie. That guidance exists precisely because it is recognised that congregated settings such as Direct Provision centres present specific challenges in this pandemic.
Shared bedrooms and communal living space are provided in numerous settings. Similar arrangements apply in homeless and disability services and, indeed, in private rented accommodation.
The direction from the HSE is that during the COVID crisis non-family members sharing a room in Direct Provision centres are considered to be a household. As such, they should implement social distancing measures from other households, i.e. residents in other rooms, and self-isolate if displaying symptoms or if directed by the HSE. In such instances, we provide facilities for self-isolation both on and off-site.
The established procedure across all centres where a person is suspected of having the virus or is confirmed as having the virus, is that, where advised by Public Health, they are moved to a dedicated offsite self-isolation facility. Supports are available for the duration of their period of isolation until such time as the HSE considers that they can safely return to their centre. My Department currently has dedicated self-isolation facilities for residents in Dublin, Cork and Dundalk. Residents in these facilities have their own bedroom and their own bathroom.
Since the start of the year over 1,550 permanent and temporary Direct Provision bed spaces have been procured, including the dedicated new centres opened in Rosslare Harbour, Cahersiveen and Tullamore.
We have relocated over 600 residents to support social and physical distancing in centres and cocooning measures for the most vulnerable. By doing this, we have ensured that no more than three single people are sharing a room in any of our centres. We intend to continue this policy when the crisis is over.
We have cocooned all residents aged 65 or older and those advised to the Department as having a medical illness that requires cocooning.
We are communicating directly with centre managers and residents via regular newsletters, which can also be found on our website www.accommodationcentres.ie. The newsletters have provided practical information on implementing social and physical distancing at this time and promoted shared learning and best practice across our network of centres. Residents have also been made aware of the need for good hand hygiene and coughing/sneezing etiquette. Information and posters have been distributed to all centres and translations of public health information have also been provided.
During this time, centre managers have also been advised to increase the standard and frequency of cleaning throughout the centres, paying particular attention to communal areas. A regular supply of hand sanitiser for centres is in place and this is distributed to centres as required. Other PPE is distributed, as needed, and in line with HPSC guidelines for its appropriate use in residential settings.
In centres that operate the Independent living model, there is an onsite food hall were residents can obtain their groceries and toiletries through a cashless system. Approximately half of all residents have access to independent living. For residents in centres that do not yet have independent living, personal hygiene products are issued to residents as part of their toiletries packs and are available as and when required by residents.
All international protection accommodation centres are contractually obliged to have Wi-Fi available to residents. Televisions are also provided in all bedrooms. This enables children to access educational programmes such as the RTE Home School Hub, which is an additional support for parents and primary school pupils. Pupils are able to watch, download and engage with curriculum-based content, project work, and fun activities to keep them entertained and learning. This broadcast is a supplement to the ongoing learning being provided by teachers.
Children who reside in Direct Provision accommodation centres are in the care of their parents and guardians. Similar to all other parents, they are responsible for ensuring that their children are engaging with education at this current time. The Department of Education and Skills (DES) and TUSLA Education Support Service (TESS) are supporting the schools and parents at this time. The International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS ) of my Department is liaising with these services to ensure that the most vulnerable children are identified and supported. A communication pathway for schools, parents and centre managers in relation to education issues has been put in place. TESS Education Welfare Officers (EWOs) will identify children and families who may need assistance, liaising with schools and sourcing additional services/resources where necessary. Children and their parents or guardians living in accommodation centres are also supported by a Tusla official and a Department of Education official seconded to my Department to work with our International Protection Accommodation Service. This ensures that any education or child support issues can be quickly followed up.
In terms of food and nutrition in centres, over half of all residents now have access to self-catering facilities where people can cook for themselves and their families. Our intention is to have this facility in place across all centres and this process is ongoing. Regional tenders for accommodation now mandate independent living for all new centres procured through that process.
In the meantime, centres that are catered are contractually obliged to provide a 28 day menu and to consult with residents on that menu. Residents can advise their centre manager of any dietary requirement that they have and this will be facilitated, where possible. Centres are also contractually obliged to provide culturally appropriate food options for residents and to prepare menus that meet the reasonable dietary needs of the different ethnic groups accommodated at the accommodation centre and the reasonable prescribed dietary needs of any person accommodated at the centre. Arrangements can also be made to cater for particular religious dietary needs, for example, Muslim residents observing Ramadan.
Menus must include a vegetarian option and all food products provided must have a traceability system that complies with food safety requirements.
My Department takes any complaints from residents very seriously. Most complaints should be brought to the centre manager in the first instance. If the resident is not satisfied with the outcome, they can make a complaint directly to IPAS, which will be investigated by IPAS officials and acted on appropriately. If the matter is still not resolved to the resident's satisfaction, they can raise a complaint with the Offices of the Ombudsman or the Ombudsman for Children, as appropriate, for their investigation.
I want to assure you that my Department and I continue to work closely with the HSE and centre management during this time to protect the health and safety of all residents and staff as a priority.
321. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the documentation supplied by a person (details supplied) in the application for a certificate of naturalisation is in order; the status of the application; when the application will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10584/20]
View answerAn application for a certificate of naturalisation was received from the person concerned on 27 May 2019. This application continues to be processed with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision as expeditiously as possible. My Department will contact the applicant directly should additional documentation be required.
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.
It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.
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.
322. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a direct provision centre (details supplied) will be investigated; and if residents will be moved to a safe environment with heating and nutritional food immediately. [10630/20]
View answerAny complaints or concerns regarding the health and safety of international protection applicants are taken extremely seriously by me, Minister Flanagan and our officials.
Following a number of issues raised in relation to this emergency accommodation premises, officials from the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) of my Department recently (4 June) held a clinic via video call with residents of the centre. This was attended by 12 of the 19 residents currently residing at the centre. The clinic was held off-site in the Miltown Malbay Community Centre and was facilitated by a volunteer from the Limerick and Clare Educational Training Board (LCETB). Other than the residents and the facilitator, only the manager of the Community Centre and the caretaker were present onsite at the time.
Each resident attended their own clinic appointment in a separate room away from the facilitator and the manager of the Community Centre to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
The majority of residents who attended the clinic stated they were happy with the food and with the accommodation in general. A small number of the residents who participated in the clinics stated that the food was not to their liking.
Following the clinics, an unannounced visit was made to the accommodation the next day (5 June 2020) by a senior official from my Department. During this visit, a number of issues raised in recent correspondence to my Office were investigated. I can confirm that during this visit all rooms were viewed and that no health and safety issues were identified. My officials will be following up with management and residents on any of the issues raised during the recent clinics.
Concerns had previously been raised with my Office around rodent activity on the premises and water leaking. I am advised that there was no evidence of any rodent activity or water leaking on the day my official visited. When questioned by my official on these matters, the owner confirmed that a resident had reported mice in his room in February. The owner engaged a pest control company who could not find any evidence of rodents. They subsequently monitored the room for three weeks and could not find any evidence of rodents. Regarding the water, I am advised that the owner confirmed that an incident occurred some months ago where water was leaking from a bath/shower on the second floor into a bedroom on the first floor. It was reported to him by the residents in the room and he sought to engage a plumber. One of the residents said he was a plumber and asked if he could fix it. It was addressed within a few hours and no reoccurrence of the leaking has been reported since.
Furthermore, my official identified no concerns about the quality or variety of food available during their visit. Food is prepared onsite by a professional chef and all meat is Halal certified. Residents also have use of the kitchen for special occasions and regularly cook meals of their choice from food supplied by management. Arrangements were also made during Ramadan recently for residents to use the kitchen at night.
I can also advise that IPAS officials previously visited the premises unannounced on 13 February last, on foot of concerns raised by a local support group. During the course of this visit, they inspected all bedrooms and recreation rooms and the kitchen and dining facilities and they had lunch with the residents. I am advised that my officials did not find any major issues to report and the residents they spoke to did not raise any issues about the standard of the centre. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) also carried out a visit to the premises in February
as part of a programme of visits to a variety of centres over a two week period. No specific issues were brought to my Department's attention regarding the premises arising from their visit.
It is my Department’s intention is to accommodate all international protection applicants currently living in emergency accommodation in dedicated accommodation centres as soon as places become available. In the meantime, I hope that this information will provide you with some reassurance on the current situation at this centre.
324. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if his attention has been drawn to unsanitary or unsafe conditions in the direct provision centre at a location (details supplied); if his officials or the international protection accommodation service, IPAS, will be instructed to arrange for an inspection of the building or to publish the findings of a recent inspection of the building, its accommodation and facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10707/20]
View answer375. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if an immediate inspection will be undertaken of a direct provision centre (details supplied); the way in which he plans to address issues with the management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11266/20]
View answer387. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if an inspection was carried out in February 2020 at a direct provision centre (details supplied); if so, the findings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11367/20]
View answer390. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the outcome of the inspection of an emergency direct provision centre (details supplied) on 5 June 2020; the findings of the inspection; the steps being taken on foot of the inspection; the person or persons who carried out the inspection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11409/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 324, 375, 387 and 390 together.
Any complaints or concerns regarding the health and safety of international protection applicants are taken extremely seriously by me, Minister Flanagan and our officials.
Following a number of issues raised in relation to this emergency accommodation premises, officials from the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) of my Department recently (4 June) held a clinic via video call with residents of the centre. This was attended by 12 of the 19 residents currently residing at the centre. The clinic was held off-site in the Miltown Malbay Community Centre and was facilitated by a volunteer from the Limerick and Clare Educational Training Board (LCETB). Other than the residents and the facilitator, only the manager of the Community Centre and the caretaker were present onsite at the time.
Each resident attended their own clinic appointment in a separate room away from the facilitator and the manager of the Community Centre to ensure privacy and confidentiality.
The majority of residents who attended the clinic stated they were happy with the food and with the accommodation in general. A small number of the residents who participated in the clinics stated that the food was not to their liking.
Following the clinics, an unannounced visit was made to the accommodation the next day (5 June 2020) by a senior official from my Department. During this visit, a number of issues raised in recent correspondence to my Office were investigated. I can confirm that during this visit all rooms were viewed and that no health and safety issues were identified. My officials will be following up with management and residents on any of the issues raised during the recent clinics.
Concerns had previously been raised with my Office around rodent activity on the premises and water leaking. I am advised that there was no evidence of any rodent activity or water leaking on the day my official visited. When questioned by my official on these matters, the owner confirmed that a resident had reported mice in his room in February. The owner engaged a pest control company who could not find any evidence of rodents. They subsequently monitored the room for three weeks and could not find any evidence of rodents. Regarding the water, I am advised that the owner confirmed that an incident occurred some months ago where water was leaking from a bath/shower on the second floor into a bedroom on the first floor. It was reported to him by the residents in the room and he sought to engage a plumber. One of the residents said he was a plumber and asked if he could fix it. It was addressed within a few hours and no reoccurrence of the leaking has been reported since.
Furthermore, my official identified no concerns about the quality or variety of food available during their visit. Food is prepared onsite by a professional chef and all meat is Halal certified. Residents also have use of the kitchen for special occasions and regularly cook meals of their choice from food supplied by management. Arrangements were also made during Ramadan recently for residents to use the kitchen at night.
I can also advise that IPAS officials previously visited the premises unannounced on 13 February last, on foot of concerns raised by a local support group. During the course of this visit, they inspected all bedrooms and recreation rooms and the kitchen and dining facilities and they had lunch with the residents. I am advised that my officials did not find any major issues to report and the residents they spoke to did not raise any issues about the standard of the centre. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) also carried out a visit to the premises in February
as part of a programme of visits to a variety of centres over a two week period. No specific issues were brought to my Department's attention regarding the premises arising from their visit.
It is my Department’s intention is to accommodate all international protection applicants currently living in emergency accommodation in dedicated accommodation centres as soon as places become available. In the meantime, I hope that this information will provide you with some reassurance on the current situation at this centre.
325. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the date on which his attention was drawn to the decision by the Garda Commissioner not to proceed with plans to build a new regional Garda headquarters in County Sligo at a site which was purchased by the Office of Public Works as part of a PPP bundle that was to see new Garda stations at Sligo, Macroom and Clonmel, as outlined by his predecessor on 21 October 2015 and on several occasions on the Dáil Éireann record since; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10740/20]
View answer326. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether, in view of the fact that Sligo is now a key growth centre in Project Ireland 2040 and it is the capital of the north-west region, the decision not to proceed with the proposed new regional garda station in Sligo should be revisited by the Government and the Garda Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10742/20]
View answer327. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the detail of the new plans which are now in place for the State to invest in the old Sligo Garda station, as outlined by him to this Deputy in Dáil Éireann on 4 June 2020; his views on whether this will be funding well spent in view of the small footprint, age and condition of the old Garda station in Sligo; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that no matter the level of investment which is allocated to this project, it will still have a limited capacity to serve the population of the area due to the special restrictions of the old site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10743/20]
View answer328. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason both Macroom and Clonmel are still set to receive new Garda stations under the previously advertised PPP bundle that contained plans for a new station in Sligo; the reason Sligo was the only station in the bundle to be removed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10744/20]
View answer329. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the decision not to proceed with plans to build a new Garda station in Sligo have been affected by the damage to the economy and the State's finances as a result of the Covid-19 outbreak; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10745/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 325 to 329, inclusive, together.
At the outset it is important to be clear that the 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. Further, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. Works in relation to Garda accommodation are therefore progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the OPW.
The overall purpose of the Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 is to address deficiencies in the Garda estate and provide fit-for-purpose facilities for Garda members and staff as well as the public interacting with them. The programme is continuing to make progress at a range of locations around the country.
A Public Private Partnership (PPP) project was included in this programme and at the time of launch, it was intended to deliver three new Garda stations- namely a new District Headquarters at Macroom, a new District Headquarters at Clonmel and a new Regional / Divisional Headquarters in Sligo. As the Deputy will recall, it was unfortunately the case that there were significant delays in relation to this intended PPP, due in the first instance to lengthy processes for acquisition of sites at all relevant locations.
At the same time, very significant developments were occurring in relation to policing in Ireland. The report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland was published and is now being taken forward under the 4-year implementation plan A Policing Service for our Future.
In keeping with that report and implementation plan, the Garda Commissioner last year announced a new Operating Model for An Garda Síochána. This new Operating Model reorganises resources around the delivery of frontline policing, placing an increased emphasis on Gardaí being out visibly on patrol, engaging with communities, preventing crime and supporting victims. As part of the reduction of bureaucracy and streamlining of administrative processes, the number of Garda Regions and Divisions is being reduced and additional power will be devolved to local level so as to enable the delivery of better and more localised policing services nationwide.
Clearly, this new model also has implications for Garda accommodation requirements. Following a review of its accommodation requirements, the Commissioner and his management team decided that the PPP should proceed to deliver new stations in Macroom and in Clonmel. However, the Commissioner determined that the provision of a new station at Sligo should not proceed as part of the PPP.
Sligo station is undergoing a very extensive refit and I understand that this is felt to be a more appropriate and much faster way of delivering a modern Garda Station for Sligo, in accordance with its role in the new Garda Operating Model and having regard to the fact that the current location of the station is considered optimum from the operational perspective.
It is however important to note that, while it was decided that delivery of a new station in Sligo under the PPP was no longer justified, the Commissioner decided that the upgrading of the existing station to a high standard will continue.
I can confirm that this decision was not made in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. The Commissioner's decision was communicated to my Department by letter received on 2 January 2020.
In terms of the nature of the works involved, as requested by the Deputy, I understand that significant remedial works have already taken place in the existing station, including the complete upgrade of the three floors in the building containing the public office and the provision of new locker facilities. I understand that further upgrades are progressing and include the provision of new cells and custody management facilities.
I am advised by the OPW that property maintenance personnel are currently on site in Sligo working on internal upgrade works at the station, to provide a new custody suite including new cells built to current standards, prisoner processing, interview, solicitor and doctor's rooms. I understand that the existing cells were not considered suitable for upgrading and the new cells are located in a different section of the building, requiring adjacent prisoner processing facilities. I understand that these works are currently due to be completed in December 2020. I am further advised that the OPW is currently preparing a tender package to provide facilities for a scene of crimes unit.
In general I understand from the Garda authorities and the OPW that further upgrades will ensure that Garda accommodation needs in Sligo are addressed and that the station is upgraded to meet the future operational requirements of Garda members, staff and the public who use it.
330. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will extend the licence of electronic alarm installers which are issued by the Private Security Authority in cases in which they have expired during the Covid-19 lockdown (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10750/20]
View answerAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Private Security Authority, established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, as amended, is responsible for the licensing and regulation of the private security industry in the State. The PSA is a statutory body, under the aegis of my Department, which is independent in the exercise of its functions.
I am informed that on 16 March 2020 and in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, the PSA announced the suspension of certification audits. The initial period of suspension was until the end of April 2020 but this was further extended to the end of May 2020 and subsequently, for certain sectors, including electronic alarm installers, to the end of July 2020. I understand that this further suspension will allow contractors to concentrate on returning to work as the public health restrictions which have been in place to deal with the pandemic are eased.
I am advised by the PSA that the licence and certification cycle do not always coincide and that therefore an audit is not always required when renewing a licence.
I am informed by the PSA that on 16 March 2020 it advised contractors of revised requirements for renewing licences. These included the introduction of a new instalment arrangement for licence fees for contractors who were experiencing cash flow difficulties. Contractors were also informed that certification was not required to renew a licence. I understand that these measures remain in place.
331. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if extensions will be given in respect of public dancing licences due to the Covid-19 crisis particularly due to the crisis that pubs are undergoing and the fact that annual licensing courts are traditionally held during this time of year. [10776/20]
View answerThe statutory provisions concerning the licensing of premises for the purposes of public dancing are set out in the Public Dance Halls Act 1935 as well as sections 2 to 10 and 21 of the Licensing (Combating Drug Abuse) Act 1997 in so far as they relate to public dancing licenses. The primary purpose of these statutory provisions is to ensure the welfare and safety of persons while present at events on the premises.
The Court may also take account not only of the suitability of the premises but the impact for the parking of vehicles in the neighbourhood of the premises. Compliance with relevant fire safety standards and availability of appropriate public liability insurance are essential requirements. Applications for renewal of existing licences are made to the annual licensing District Court. I am informed that where, for whatever reason, an application for renewal of a public dancing licence is not dealt with, the existing licence will continue in force until the application is finally dealt with at a subsequent sitting of the Court.
332. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons arrested and-or charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and-or drugs in each of the past six months to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10797/20]
View answerI would first point out that the Central Statistics Office (CSO), as the national statistical agency, is responsible for the compilation and publication of all crime statistics. The CSO produces these statistics using data including data recorded on An Garda Síochána’s PULSE system and makes regular releases under reservation in relation to various crime statistics, including recorded and detected crime. The CSO also continues to work with An Garda Síochána to address quality issues in the underlying sources used to compile the statistics.
While the Deputy will therefore appreciate that the official statistics are those which will in due course be published by the CSO, the following table, furnished to me by the Garda authorities, sets out provisional, operational data on the number of persons arrested for driving while under the influence of an intoxicant and the number of instances in which prosecutions commenced in each of the past six months.
Driving while Under the Influence of an Intoxicant* (Drivers Under the Influence and Drug-Driving Offences)
|
|
December 2019 |
January 2020 |
February 2020 |
March 2020 |
April 2020 |
May 2020 |
Total |
|
Number of Arrests |
876 |
812 |
818 |
665 |
630 |
704 |
4,505 |
|
Number of Incidents where Prosecutions commenced |
612 |
525 |
483 |
322 |
219 |
164 |
2,325 |
*These figures provided are provisional, operational and Subject to Change and are correct as of 9 June 2020.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that during much of the time period reflected in the table, public health restrictions on movement and gatherings due to the Covid-19 pandemic have resulted in a significant reduction in traffic volumes. In addition, I understand that in light of the Covid-19 pandemic and related limitations on court hearings, some prosecutions which would ordinarily have commenced have been adjourned. I am further advised by the Garda authorities that it is expected that additional prosecutions will be initiated following the receipt of analysis from the Medical Bureau of Road Safety.
333. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when naturalisation status will be made available in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10799/20]
View answerThe person concerned currently holds a Stamp 4 permission to remain in the State, valid until 5 October 2021. There is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person concerned.
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is governed by the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. All applications for a certificate of naturalisation are processed and assessed individually in accordance with the provisions of the Act. A determination on whether an applicant satisfies the statutory criteria attendant to naturalisation can only be made after an application is received.
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.
It is open to any individual to lodge an application for citizenship if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory conditions as prescribed in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended.
Full details of the eligibility criteria, a residency calculator and extensive guidelines are available on the Immigration Service website at: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/citizenship/.
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 e-mail service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
