Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 17 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 6

Written Answers - Visa Applications.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

160 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is departmental policy not to issue visas to the relatives of existing visa holders as reported in the media recently; if so, the length of time this policy has been in operation; the number of applications refused as a result of this policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28255/98]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

There has been no change in policy. All applications are considered on their own merits. The approval of a visa for an individual, however, does not necessarily guarantee the immediate approval of visas for any of that person's relatives.