Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 November 2020
162. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Justice if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the INIS registration offices in Dublin and regionally are currently closed for first-time registration (details supplied); the reason immigration registration offices are closed and are not deemed to be an essential public service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37327/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 18 September 2020, I announced that all immigration and international protection permissions to reside in the State that were due to expire between 20 September 2020 and 20 January 2021 were automatically renewed to the 20 January 2021. The renewal of a permission is on the same basis as the existing permission and the same conditions attach. This has ensured that people do not fall out of permission and remain legally resident in the State during this time.
The Registration Office in Burgh Quay closed to the public on 22 October 2020 following the introduction of Level 5 restrictions under the Government’s Framework for Living with Covid-19. The decision was taken in line with public health guidelines, for the safety of our customers and staff. First-time registrations require the taking of fingerprints and therefore cannot be done online. The Office will reopen as soon as Level 5 restrictions are lifted and appointments will be available to people living in the Dublin area who are required to register for the first time.
Registrations outside of the Dublin area are processed by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) through the Garda Station network. Further information, and the contact details of each registration office outside Dublin, is available from https://www.garda.ie/en/about-us/our-departments/office-of-corporate-communications/news-media/reopening-of-registration-offices.html.
