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Immigration Status

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 October 2020

Tuesday, 6 October 2020

Questions (613)

Mick Barry

Question:

613. Deputy Mick Barry asked the Minister for Justice the timeline for her Department’s policy paper on the regularisation of undocumented persons; if it will be open to receiving submissions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28691/20]

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Written answers

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to create new pathways for long-term undocumented people and their dependents meeting specified criteria to regularise their status within 18 months of the formation of the Government, bearing in mind European Union and Common Travel Area commitments.

Ireland along with other Member States of the EU, has committed, under the European Pact on Immigration and Asylum (2008), to a case-by-case approach as opposed to mass regularisation. However, the Government recognises that some may find themselves in an undocumented position through no fault of their own.

A policy paper on the matter is being drafted by my Department at the present time. This will include an assessment of international best practices. Previous regularisation schemes, like the 2018 Student Scheme, will also be considered in any future policy. If the Deputy or any other party wishes to make a submission on the issue of the undocumented, I would be happy to receive it.

I would encourage any person who is resident in the State without permission to contact my Department or their local immigration office and to take all appropriate steps to regularise their own and their family's status. In all cases, people must engage with the authorities if they wish to be permitted to remain here legally. The Immigration Service of my Department examines each case of an undocumented or illegal person in the State on a case-by-case basis and is considered on its individual merits.

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