I propose to take Questions Nos. 230 and 231 together.
Ireland is one of 8 European countries that participates in a programme which resettles refugees on humanitarian grounds in co-operation with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
In 2005, I increased the quota from 10 cases (approximately 40 persons) per annum to 200 persons to be implemented on a phased basis over 3 years. Admissions for 2005 and 2006 were 116 and 198 persons respectively. The UNHCR have been advised that Ireland will accept the full quota of 200 refugees for 2007.
I have no plans for a further increase in the resettlement quota at this time but my Department is in regular contact with the UNHCR regarding ongoing developments in this area.