Ceist:
154 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of applications for asylum (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27153/98]
Written Answers - Asylum Applications.
While it is not the practice to comment on individual cases, I confirm to the Deputy that the applicants for refugee status in question were refused at first instance and all availed of the opportunity to appeal their individual decisions.
The position in regard to their appeals are as follows. The appeals of 11 family units comprising 20 adults and 18 children have been heard by the independent appeals authority and my Department is awaiting his recommendation. The appeals of four family units, comprising seven adults and three children, have been adjourned for up to three weeks.