Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 29 September 2004
1117 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the visa application for a person (details supplied); when a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22306/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe visa application in question, which was received in my Department on 6 August 2004, is under consideration. A number of factors require careful consideration and examination. The application will be finalised when all relevant information has been taken in account. The unprecedented escalation in the numbers of applications for Irish visas over recent years has resulted in some delays. The visa section of the immigration and citizenship division of my Department, which is committed to providing a high quality service to its customers, is making every effort to process all visa applications in as timely a manner as possible.
1118 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the appeals officer refused applications for holiday visas for two persons (details supplied). [22320/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn appeal against the refusal of the two visa applications in question was received in my Department in September 2004. The visa appeals officer who examined the applications took into account the information provided in the applications, the applicant's ties and general circumstances in their country of origin, their immigration history, as well as the relative attractiveness and feasibility of the applicants remaining in the State. The Department's approach in such matters is informed by past experience, including experience of abuse of the system. In this instance, the visa appeals officer formed the opinion that it would not be reasonable to conclude that the applicants would observe the conditions attached to the visa and the decision to refuse the application was upheld.
