Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
795. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice what provision her Department has made for Palestinians who have fled the war in Gaza to seek asylum in Ireland in circumstances (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13364/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra966. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice what bespoke scheme, if any, exists for Palestinians fleeing the conflict in Gaza to come to Ireland. [13128/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 795 and 966 together.
I am acutely aware of the grave humanitarian crisis in Gaza and my Department is working closely with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to ensure a coordinated national response to this volatile and evolving situation. This includes their work to evacuate Irish citizens and their families who may require visa assistance.Where visa applicants are missing important information, such as proof of identity and familial relationships, there is active engagement with the applicants to gather the required documents to ensure that the Visa Division of my Department have everything needed progress these applications.Any person that wishes to make a visa application to travel to Ireland can do so online at: www.visas.inis.gov.ie/avats/OnlineHome.aspx.Further information in relation to the making of a visa application can be found on my Department’s immigration website at: www.irishimmigration.ie.
I can also advise that in relation to Long Stay Join Family visa applications, these applications are processed in accordance with the guidelines set out in the Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification. This policy document may be accessed at the following link: www.irishimmigration.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Policy-document-on-Non-EEA-family-reunification.pdf.
The current arrangements have facilitated the travel to Ireland of a number of family members who have been able to exit Gaza and my Department will continue to work to process such applications as quickly as possible. While all visa schemes are kept under ongoing review, there are no plans to introduce a bespoke scheme along the lines the Deputy suggests.
