Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 28 June 2023
117. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice if she is aware of the difficulties being experienced by non-EEA health care assistants in acquiring permission from her Department for family reunification for spouses and children (details supplied); her plans to address this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [31517/23]
View answerI recognise and acknowledge the crucial role front-line workers play in the delivery of our healthcare system. They work in a challenging environment and deal with vulnerable people on a daily basis.
The position in regard to applications of this nature is set out in the Policy Document for Non-EEA Family Reunification, which is available on my Department's website. The policy, which was last amended in 2016, is currently under review.
The policy document sets out the rationale for applying resource requirements as part of the overall assessment of whether to approve an application for family reunification. In general terms, the sponsor must demonstrate their capacity to provide for their family member(s) if they are to be granted a permission to come to Ireland.
As a guideline, Category B sponsors such as those on General Employment Permits, regardless of occupation, must have a gross income in excess of that applied by the Department of Social Protection (DSP) in assessing eligibility for the Working Family Payment (formerly Family Income Supplement). In examining such applications, my Department applies the DSP income levels current at the time of assessment.
It is also open to the spouse of an applicant to make an application for an employment permit in their own right, independent of their partner's permission.
