Vol. 577 No. 4
259 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will reconsider the deportation of the spouse of a person (details supplied) in County Galway whose child and themselves are being refused one parent family payment; if he will enable the family to be reunited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31514/03]
The partner of the person referred to in the question, who is Nigerian, had his application for asylum refused in November 2000. Following consideration of his case under the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and under section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, a deportation order against him issued on 19 February 2002. He was deported on 13 March 2002. Under the law, the effect of the deportation order is that such a person must leave the State and remain outside it thereafter.
Our records indicate that both persons referred to had not married at the time of deportation but had indicated an intention to do so. Qualification for payment of one parent family allowance to the partner of the person deported is a matter for the Minister for Social and Family Affairs. The revocation of a deportation order does not arise in that context.
