I propose to take Questions Nos. 75 to 77, inclusive, together.
The role of the independent Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner (ORAC) in accordance with Section 18 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) is to investigate applications by refugees to allow family members to enter and reside in the State. ORAC prepares reports to the Minister for Justice and Equality in this regard.
I am advised by the Refugee Applications Commissioner that applications are dealt with in chronological order and processing times can vary depending on the complexity of cases and the overall volume of applications. Processing time to final decision by the Minister in such cases is currently in the region of 12 months.
The Refugee Applications Commissioner further advises that ORAC endeavours to provide a fair and efficient service to all applicants for family reunification. ORAC treats seriously any complaints received in relation to the service provided in accordance with its Customer Charter and Complaints procedure, details of which are on the ORAC website at www.orac.ie.