Finian McGrath
Ceist:1227. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will support a matter (details supplied). [38110/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 18 September 2012
Ceisteanna (1227)
Freagraí scríofa
The question of a 72 hour visa as alluded to by the Deputy does not arise in this case. It is understood that the individual referred to by the Deputy is a citizen of the United States of America. As such, he does not require a visa to travel to Ireland, but is subject to the usual immigration control provisions which apply to everybody who arrives in Ireland irrespective of nationality. Section 4 (2) of the Immigration Act 2004 provides that a non-national coming by air or sea from a place outside the state shall, on arrival in the state, present himself or herself to an Immigration Officer for permission to land or be in the state. Section 4(3) of the Immigration Act sets out the eleven grounds on which a person may be refused entry to the State.
I understand that in this case, the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) have made direct contact with the promoters of the proposed event and explained to them the requirements in respect of entry to the State and, as it may be relevant to this case, our obligations in respect of the Common Travel Area between Ireland and the United Kingdom. I understand that the position has been clarified to the satisfaction of the promoters concerned.