Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:29 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Justice the deadline for implementation of all sections of the Refugee Act, 1996; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2032/97]
Other Questions. - Refugee Act, 1996.
I expect that the Refugee Act, 1996, will be fully implemented by June this year. Steps are being taken at present in my Department to organise the recruitment of staff, secure suitable office accommodation and put in place the necessary procedures, statutory and nonstatutory, to ensure the successful launch of the new independent bodies envisaged by the Act. This work is being treated as a priority within my Department, particularly in view of the considerable increase in the rate at which applications for asylum are being made.
I thank the Minister of State for his reply.
The Deputy is well trained.