Vol. 531 No. 2
176 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will introduce legislation to fine a carrier which has transported a passenger into the jurisdiction without the appropriate documentation required for entry, where that passenger is in fact an applicant for asylum. [5272/01]
I can confirm, as indicated in the Government legislative programme announced by the Chief Whip on 25 January 2001, that the immigration (carriers' liability) Bill is in course of preparation in the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to the Government on foot of a scheme developed in my Department. The legislation will make it an offence for a passenger carrier to bring improperly documented passengers to the State. Among the matters being considered in the context of that work is how the Bill should apply in relation to improperly documented passengers who on arrival seek asylum.
Questions Nos. 177 and 178 answered with Question No. 157.
