Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 November 2023
183. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice if there is any expedition for families applying for reunification of their family members in Gaza who cannot access original documents as necessary in usual circumstances given this is an abnormal situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50364/23]
View answerI am acutely aware of the grave humanitarian crisis in Gaza and my Department is working closely with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to ensure a coordinated national response to this volatile and evolving situation. This includes their work to evacuate Irish citizens and their families who may require visa assistance.Where via applicants are missing important information, such as proof of identity and familial relationships, there is active engagement with the applicants to gather the required documents to ensure that the Visa Division of my Department have everything needed progress these applications.
The central concern in deciding on visa applications, as with all visa services worldwide, is to strike an appropriate balance between protecting the country's vital national interests by maintaining an effective immigration regime while at the same time facilitating travel for those who meet the criteria. My Department must be satisfied as to the identity and relationship to the sponsor in Ireland of the person to whom a permission may be granted.
I can also advise that Long Stay Join Family visa applications are processed in accordance with the guidelines set out in the Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification. This policy document may be accessed at the following link:www.irishimmigration.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Policy-document-on-Non-EEA-family-reunification.pdf .
