Mary Coughlan
Ceist:81 Miss Coughlan asked the Minister for Justice when it is proposed to fully implement the Refugee Act as passed in June 1996; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11061/97]
Written Answers. - Implementation of Refugee Legislation.
The implementation of this legislation involves a number of detailed measures on which work is well advanced. These include the preparation of regulations, the recruitment of staff, securing accommodation, dealing with the present backlog of applications and setting up a system of legal aid for asylum-seekers.
The office of the Attorney General is working with my Department on the development of a series of implementing regulations up to 12, of varying degrees of complexity, which are needed to give practical effect to the Act's provisions. These include an order to give effect to the Dublin convention.
The Civil Service Commissioners are in the process of recruiting the refugee applications commissioner, and it is expected that an appointment will be made shortly. Steps are also being taken to secure the additional staff necessary to assist the commissioner in the performance of his or her functions under the Act.
Arrangements have been put in place, in conjunction with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees with the aim of reducing to a manageable level the amount of work to be taken on by the commissioner once the Act is commenced.
Work is proceeding as quickly as possible so as to achieve my objective of having this legislation in effect at an early date. My assessment is that this can be achieved during this Dáil session.
Deputies will be aware, of course, that since the legislation was enacted there has been an enormous increase in the number of applicants for asylum in the State. The impact of this increase is being examined in so far as it will have effect on the setting up of the new structures.