Written Answers Nos. 432-451
432. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the progress to date in the determination of an application for a visa in the case of the daughter of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22552/24]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that the application referred to was created on the 06 October 2023. Supporting documentation was received in the Nairobi office on the 12 October 2023. The application was received in the Dublin Visa Office on the 03 November 2023 where it awaits examination and processing.
Long Stay Join Family visa 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
This Policy Document contains a stated business target that visa applications for family reunification for immediate family members of Irish citizens and Category A sponsors, such as Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders, should be dealt with within 6 months of application.
A 12 month target will apply for applications to join Category B sponsors, such as Non Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders or Stamp 4 holders not covered by other more favourable arrangements.
However, it must be made clear that these are business targets for the immigration service. The business target reflects the detailed and often complex assessment that is required to be carried out in relation to applications for family reunification.
It is not possible to give a definitive date as to when this application will be finalised. All applications are processed in chronological order, based on date order of receipt. While every effort is made to process applications as soon as possible, processing times will vary having regard to the volume and complexity of applications, the possible need for the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) function of the Department to investigate, inquire into, or seek further information, and the resources available.
The applicant will be notified as soon as a decision has been reached by a Visa Officer.
Processing times and decisions at the Dublin Visa Office can be checked at the following link which is updated each Tuesday:
www.irishimmigration.ie/visa-decisions/
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: IMoireachtasmail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
433. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice whether an assessment has been carried out by his Department to determine whether the International Protection Office on Mount Street Lower, Dublin 2, is an appropriate and-or safe place to process applicants for international protection in light of the significant increase in numbers making applications at that office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22558/24]
View answerI can assure you that the health and wellbeing of all people who apply for international protection is of the highest priority to me and my Department, as is the health and safety of the staff working in the International Protection Office (IPO).
The IPO buildings have fire safety certificates which guide the appropriate use of space. The numbers of individuals accessing Timberlay House is actively managed on a daily basis to ensure that it is safe at all times.
Due to an increase in the number of new international protection applications over recent months, since 10 April 2024, the IPO has been operating a second location for registering families accompanied by children at Citywest Convention Centre, Saggart, Co. Dublin.
The Citywest facility has greater capacity to process families with children and is equipped to handle large groups of people. A large family waiting area and a child-friendly space is available, alongside private rooms for vulnerability assessments. Staff from Citywest and the IPO are supported by local volunteers. Applicants are assisted by cultural mediators from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Interpreters are on site to work with applicants in completing their forms.
Since the Citywest processing site opened (to Friday, May 17), some 1,007 applicants have made their applications at this location.
Single applicants continue to have their applications processed at Timberlay House, Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
434. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice whether immigration officials within her Department are monitoring the transportation of international protection applicants from Northern Ireland to Ireland; whether those transporting the applicants are breaching any immigration laws; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22559/24]
View answerThe Border Management Unit (BMU) of my Department has responsibility for frontline immigration duties at Dublin Airport only. Other airports and other ports of entry, including the land border with Northern Ireland, are the responsibility of the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).Ireland and the United Kingdom share a common interest in the effective operation of the Common Travel Area (CTA), and work together to prevent any abuses of the CTA. There is extensive engagement and cooperation at all levels between my Department’s officials and their Home Office counterparts, as well as significant operational cooperation between the Gardaí, UK Border Force, UK policing services and the PSNI. This strong practical engagement and cooperation serves the mutual interests of both Ireland and the United Kingdom, and will continue.
The Common Travel Area Forum (CTAF) acts as a steering committee for the ongoing work of protecting the CTA in relation to free movement of its citizens between both countries while at the same time ensuring that the CTA is not abused by those not entitled to avail of it. The CTAF endeavours to facilitate a joint approach resolve abuses and limit opportunities available to those that try to take advantage of CTA arrangements for criminal purposes. Such issues of cooperation between An Garda Síochána, my own Department and our UK colleagues highlight the existing strong ties between North & South and East & West. This includes a number of ongoing operations, in co-operation with the UK, tackling abuses of the CTA by identifying illegal secondary movement patterns within the CTA and taking effective actions to disrupt abuse of those routes. Maintaining the integrity of the immigration system, involves robust controls to prevent illegal entry. In 2021 our legislation was strengthened to combat people smuggling both into Ireland and into other countries (including EU Member States and parties to the UN Protocol against people smuggling). The Criminal Justice (Smuggling of Persons) Act 2021 widened the range of scenarios covered by our laws, including intentionally assisting entry, transit or presence where the person knows or has reasonable cause to believe that it is in breach of specified immigration law provisions. An Garda Síochána is responsible for assessing and investigating any possible breaches of these or other laws.
435. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Justice if an application for a person who was refused permission by her Department to lodge an appeal or seek a review on this matter; the options open to the person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22571/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, it is not my Department's practice to comment on whether an application for international protection has been made in the State. If a person is in the international protection process, there is a legal requirement under the International Protection Act 2015 to maintain full confidentiality at all times. Therefore the Department is unable to publish any information that would identify an international protection applicant.
If an application for international protection has been made in the State, the applicant or their designated legal advisor should contact the International Protection Office (IPO) or the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) directly, as appropriate. This will enable a full and comprehensive reply to be provided.
Both the International Protection Office (IPO) and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) are fully independent in deciding whether or not to grant international protection. Each application is examined individually on its own merits, in line with national and international asylum law.
The International Protection Office may be contacted: by email to info@ipo.gov.ie; by telephone to the IPO Customer Service Centre at 01 6028000 or in writing to Customer Service Centre, International Protection Office, 79-83 Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
The International Protection Appeals Tribunal may be contacted either: by email to info@protectionappeals.ie; by telephone at 01-4748400 (or Lo-Call 1890 201 458), or in writing to Corporate Services Division, The International Protection Appeals Tribunal, 6-7 Hanover Street East, Dublin D02 W320.
Information and an overview of the application process for international protection applicants can be found on the IPO website here:
www.ipo.gov.ie/en/IPO/Pages/Assessment_of_Application
Information on how to make an appeal to the International Protection Appeals Tribunal, as well as how to access legal advice can be found here:
/www.protectionappeals.ie/how-to-appeal/
The Department's website also provides a detailed overview of the International Protection process in Ireland which can be accessed at:
www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/304ba-international-protection/
436. Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice if she has any figures or estimates on the number of Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection and applicants for international protection resident in Ireland who may have crossed the border into Northern Ireland and on into Britain; and what efforts, if any, are being made to monitor the matter. [22589/24]
View answerI can advise the Deputy that Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BoTP) are permitted to be outside the State for short periods.
Under Section 16(3) of the International Protection Act 2015, as amended, an applicant for International Protection shall not leave or attempt to leave the State without the consent of the Minister.
In the context of International Protection applicants, Section 16 of the International Protection Act 2015 deals with permission to enter and remain in the State. Section 16(3)(a) provides that an applicant, shall not leave, or attempt to leave, the State without the consent of the Minister. The practical and operational manifestation of that provision is that a person in the international protection process can request the consent of the Minister for Justice to leave the State for a specified reason and for a specified period. This consent is only granted in exceptional circumstances. 37 requests under Section 16(3) of the International Protection Act have been made between 1 January and 17 May 2024. One of those requests was from a Ukrainian national. It is important to note that any international protection applicant who obtains ministerial consent to leave the State, or any beneficiary of temporary protection, will also be required to satisfy the immigration requirements of the country of destination before they can make concrete plans to leave the State. As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland and the United Kingdom share a long history and common interest in the effective operation of the Common Travel Area (CTA), and work together to prevent any abuses of the CTA. There is extensive engagement and cooperation at all levels between my Department’s officials and their Home Office counterparts, as well as significant operational cooperation between the Gardaí, UK policing services and the PSNI. This also includes the Irish Border Management Unit (BMU), Garda National immigration Bureau (GNIB) and colleagues in the UK Border Force and Immigration Enforcement. The Common Travel Area Forum (CTAF), established in 2011, acts as a steering committee for the ongoing work of protecting the CTA. The Forum meets twice yearly but also meets in sub-group format to address particular elements of Ireland/UK co-operation, bringing together relevant subject matter expertise in various areas. There are a number of ongoing operations, in co-operation with the UK, tackling abuses of the CTA by identifying illegal secondary movement patterns within the CTA and taking effective actions to disrupt abuse of those routes. As the Deputy is aware there are no routine exit checks on persons leaving the State, and as such figures for the number of persons leaving the State in the circumstances referred to are not available.
437. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question number 219 of 30 April 2024, the number of disqualified drivers who were prosecuted for failing to surrender their licence as set out in the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations 2006; the number who were convicted of this offence in court in 2022 and 2023; the fines imposed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22627/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, prosecutions are a matter for the Director of Prosecutions, who is fully independent in her functions under Section 2(5) of the Prosecution of Offences Act 1974 (as amended).
As Minister, I have no role in the operations, functions, governance or oversight of the Office of the DPP and I am unable to provide any information or statistics relating to the Director's work as a result.
Additionally, management of the courts, along with related operational matters and logistical functions, are the responsibility of the judiciary and Courts Service, which are independent in exercising their functions under the Courts Service Act 1998 and through the separation of powers in the Constitution.
The Courts Service has a dedicated email address for the provision of information to members of the Houses of the Oireachtas: oireachtasenquiries@courts.ie.
To be of assistance to the Deputy, I have referred his question to the Courts Service for reply.
438. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 530 of 30 April 2024, the number of Gardaí on sick leave who are included in the figure of 627 assigned to roads policing on 29 February 2024; the number of Gardaí suspended who are included in the 627 figure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22630/24]
View answerIt has not been possible to collate and examine all the information requested by the Deputy in the time available. I will write to the Deputy directly once the information is to hand.
439. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Justice the number in the international protection system awaiting either a decision on their international protection application or their application for leave to remain; the number who have been granted status either international protection or leave to remain; the number who have received a deportation order; the number who did not fall within any of the foregoing categories up to the end of March 2024; if she will outline the basis upon which the latter group is provided accommodation by IPAS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22637/24]
View answerI can assure the Deputy that I am fully committed to ensuring that Ireland’s International Protection system is robust and rules based, and that our borders are protected.
I have significantly increased investment into the international protection system, which has allowed for a significant increase in processing capacity and the introduction of accelerated processing.
Last July, I published a report on the international protection modernisation programme for 2023 and 2024. This programme involved unparalleled investment in staff, panel members, reengineered processes, and technology. We have implemented measures to improve efficiencies and throughput as well as enhancing the application, interview and decision-making process for applicants. This has already demonstrated results with the IPO confident of delivering over 14,000 decisions this year.
One of the priority areas of focus has been to recruit both civil servants and panel members, to increase case processing. The International Protection Office now has over 400 staff, an increase of 95% over 2022. The IPO made 2,482 first instance determinations in 2021, 4323 in 2022, 9,000 in 2023 and are confident of delivering over 14,000 decisions this year. I intend to continue to ramp up investment at every stage in the international protection system.
Reforms to the international protection process will continue in 2024. Approximately €34m additional funding was allocated in Budget 2024 to the International Protection Office (IPO) and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) to continue to scale up processing.
Since I introduced accelerated processing in November 2022, applications from eight designated safe countries have dropped by 50%. I added two additional countries to the safe country list earlier this year and eight more are under review.
I recently extended fast processing to whatever country has the highest number of applicants. This will be reviewed on a quarterly basis.
These measures, and all other aspects of the international protection modernisation programme will continue to be kept under review and improved on a continuous ongoing basis.
Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth is responsible for the provision of accommodation and related services to applicants who wish to accept such services. The Department works closely with IPAS to ensure that it has up to date information on the status of persons who have applied for international protection.
The table below details the number of applications that were in the international protection system awaiting either a decision on their international protection application or their application for leave to remain.
|
Pending |
Total |
|
2022 |
14103 |
|
2023 |
18314 |
|
2024* |
20696 |
*Up to 31st March 2024
**Please note, figures are correct at time of issue, however all statistics may be subject to data cleansing.
As of 30th April 2024 there were 21,577 applicants awaiting a first instance decision at the IPO. Of these, 98% (21,080) have been in the system for less than 2 years and almost 70% are less than 1 year.
The table below details the number that had been granted status either international protection or Permission to Remain. In 2023, 64% of IP applications were refused (or withdrew or were deemed inadmissible), while 36% received a permission to remain.
|
Determinations |
2022 |
2023 |
2024* |
|
Permission to Remain (PTR) Grant |
2078 |
534 |
75 |
|
Refugee Status (RS) Grant |
1390 |
2471 |
697 |
|
Subsidiary Protection (SP) Grant |
69 |
237 |
71 |
|
Refused (RS,SP and PTR) |
867 |
5166 |
1,666 |
|
Withdrawals |
491 |
361 |
72 |
|
Deemed Inadmissible |
87 |
184 |
184 |
|
Total |
4,982 |
8,953 |
2,765 |
*Up to 31st March 2023
**Please note, figures are correct at time of issue, however all statistics may be subject to data cleansing.
A deportation order is a legal order to leave the State. Any person who has been ordered to leave the State and fails to do so is committing a criminal offence, and can be arrested without warrant if they come into contact with An Garda Síochána. Such an order remains on the person’s record permanently – it means they cannot enter Ireland again in future, and it will likely also have an impact on their ability to travel to the UK and the EU.
The Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) carries out inquiries to confirm that people have removed themselves from the State, and works closely with my Department to enforce deportations where this is not the case. In addition to the enforced deportations and those that are otherwise confirmed to have left, we know that a much larger number of people will have left the State without being escorted; however, as there are no routine exit checks at Irish borders, it is not possible to accurately quantify this number.
Enforced deportation operations are complex and costly. They often involve detailed detection work, detentions in custody, legal challenges, complications with obtaining travel documents, and of course, the cost of flights and related matters. Alternatives to forced removals, such as assisted returns, are therefore typically preferential because they are easier, cheaper and faster to carry out.
Most people ordered to leave the State will comply. My Department provides assistance through a voluntary return programme to eligible individuals who opt for this process and who then benefit from assistance to reintegrate back into their home country. Where this type of return is effected, a Deportation Order is not required.
The total number of IP deportation orders issued in 2022 and 2023 and 2024 up to March 30 2024 is outlined below.
|
Year |
IP Deportations issued |
|
2024 |
283* |
|
2023 |
835 |
|
2022 |
250 |
*To 30th March 2024.
**Please note, figures are correct at time of issue, however all statistics may be subject to data cleansing.
The EU Migration and Asylum Pact, if approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas will introduce legally binding processing times, increase screening and border checks, and improve the efficiency and efficacy of the returns system.
440. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Justice to provide details of the number of deportation orders that have been issued in each year since 2020, and in each month of 2024; the number that have been actioned directly by the State in these years and these months; the location of those immigrants who have received a deportation order that has not been actioned to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22638/24]
View answerA deportation order is a legal order to leave the State. Any person who has been ordered to leave the State and fails to do so is committing a criminal offence, and can be arrested without warrant if they come into contact with An Garda Síochána. Such an order remains on the person’s record permanently – it means they cannot enter Ireland again in future, and it will likely also have an impact on their ability to travel to the UK and the EU.
The Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) carries out inquiries to confirm that people have removed themselves from the State, and works closely with my Department to enforce deportations where this is not the case. In addition to the enforced deportations and those that are otherwise confirmed to have left, we know that a much larger number of people will have left the State without being escorted; however, as there are no routine exit checks at Irish borders, it is not possible to accurately quantify this number.
Enforced deportation operations are complex and costly. They often involve detailed detection work, detentions in custody, legal challenges, complications with obtaining travel documents, and of course, the cost of flights and related matters. Alternatives to forced removals, such as assisted returns, are therefore typically preferential because they are easier, cheaper and faster to carry out.
Most people ordered to leave the State will comply. To introduce exit checks would require the introduction of border controls on the Island of Ireland. My Department provides assistance through a voluntary return programme to eligible individuals who opt for this process and who then benefit from assistance to reintegrate back into their home country. Where this type of return is effected, a Deportation Order is not required.
The below table sets out the number of Deportation Orders issued; and the number of Deportation Orders enforced by GNIB.
|
Year |
DOs Issued |
DOs enforced by GNIB (1) |
Non-escorted deportations (2) |
Voluntary Returns (3) |
Dublin iii Transfers (4) |
EU Removals (5) |
All Returns |
|
2020 |
872 |
43 |
97 |
201 |
15 |
33 |
389 |
|
2021 |
29 |
5 |
33 |
132 |
4 |
42 |
216 |
|
2022 |
270 |
26 |
92 |
91 |
3 |
37 |
249 |
|
2023 |
948 |
52 |
28 |
213 |
3 |
21 |
317 |
|
Jan’24 |
81 |
5 |
2 |
22 |
0 |
0 |
29 |
|
Feb’24 |
120 |
8 |
3 |
49 |
1 |
2 |
63 |
|
Mar’24 |
63 |
8 |
0 |
31 |
0 |
2 |
41 |
|
April |
180 |
12 |
0 |
34 |
1 |
5 |
52 |
|
May (17/05/24) |
142 |
4 |
0 |
30 |
1 |
0 |
35 |
*Please note, figures are correct at time of issue, however, all statistics may be subject to data cleansing.
*Numbers deported may relate to deportation orders issued in a previous year.
Person escorted from the state by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).
Information has come to hand or by inquiry to the effect that the individual has left the state following receipt of a DO.
Persons who availed of the voluntary return programme without getting a deportation order.
Transfer to another EU State to have their application for International Protection examined.
EU Citizen removed from the State under the Free Movement Regulations (generally criminals).
In 2023 the GNIB enforced 52 DOs which is a 100% increase on the 2022 figure of 26 DOs enforced.
In 2023 there were 213 Voluntary Returns (VRs) which is over double the 2022 figure of 91 VRs.
My Department is working closely with the Office of Government Procurement in respect of the tendering process for the supply of charter flight services for Deportation. The intention is for these services to be available later in the year. In the meantime, the removal of people from Ireland (including those being transferred to EU countries and the UK) who do not have a legal right to remain in the country will be carried out by commercial flights.
Additionally, my Department and An Garda Síochána continue to engage intensively on the transfer of certain immigration functions to my Department. In April the registration of immigration residence permissions for counties Meath, Kildare and Wicklow, transferred from An Garda Síochána to my Department, which is already responsible for Dublin. It is intended that my Department will assume responsibility for registrations nationwide, the transfer is expected to be completed within the next 12 months. This will free up to 100 Gardaí to focus on other immigration enforcement work, which will include deportations.
It is not possible to provide locations to the Deputy as requested, as this would require the manual examination of large numbers of case. Such an examination would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort and could not be justified in current circumstances where there are other significant demands on resources. Furthermore, in many instances the persons in question will no longer be present at the address originally provided. However, I can assure the Deputy that individuals who are subject to an order are obliged to comply with any reporting requirements that may be placed on them by the GNIB.
441. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Justice if the register of relevant organisations under the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012-2016 is publicly available; if not, her plans to make it publicly available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22653/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda National Vetting Bureau (GNVB) is responsible for the management of the Garda vetting system under the general superintendence of the Garda Commissioner, under the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 -2016. As Minister for Justice, I have no role in the operation of the vetting system and am unable to intervene in individual applications.
Section 8 of the Act provides that the Chief Bureau Officer of the Vetting Bureau is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of a register of relevant organisations, as defined in the Act. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the register is not available publicly for operational reasons. The register is fluid and subject to constant change, and currently comprises over 27,000 Relevant Organisations who are registered for vetting services.
There are no plans to make the register publicly available as a result.
442. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if consideration is being given to reassessing the application process for legal aid from the Legal Aid Board in order that account is taken of the current cost of accommodation and/or debts held by the applicant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22654/24]
View answerIn its over forty years of operation, the Civil Legal Aid Scheme has been a significant and beneficial public service, providing legal aid and advice to people of limited means in civil disputes, including family law.
However, since the Scheme was set up, Irish society has changed, and the demands on the service have grown. In June 2022, I established the Civil Legal Aid Review Group to review the current operation of the Civil Legal Aid Scheme and make recommendations for its future.
The Review Group is chaired by former Chief Justice, Mr Frank Clarke. The membership of the group is drawn from legal practitioners, academics, Department officials, those who work with marginalised groups, and representatives from the Legal Aid Board, which administers the statutory scheme. Amongst the issues the Group has been asked to consider in its terms of reference is the appropriateness of the current eligibility thresholds, particularly those relating to means.
As part of the review, a comprehensive multi-phased process of consultation has been conducted to ensure that as wide a range of views as possible is captured. The Group is now considering the findings from this extensive consultation and the research processes it has undertaken, in the overall context of its terms of reference, the existing legal support landscape in Ireland and how best to meet the civil legal needs of individuals now and in the future.
The Group is expected to conclude in the near future, at which point I look forward to receiving its report and considering its recommendations.
443. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice if she will provide an update in relation to legislation due in relation to the theft of a companion pet; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22659/24]
View answerThe issue of pet theft became particularly prevalent during the Covid lockdowns when demand for dogs was particularly high and huge prices were being paid, which unsurprisingly coincided with an increase in reported thefts.
In response, An Garda Síochána engaged with the public and there was targeted enforcement and ongoing patrols. Gardaí reported a number of search and seizure successes throughout this period, as did customs and excise officers at designated ports of entry.
Dog theft is a serious crime and that can come with prison sentences of up to ten years for theft and for handling of stolen property and up to five years for possession of stolen property. If a burglary is involved, the sentence may be up to 14 years of imprisonment. When imposing sentences, judges are not limited to considering the monetary value of a pet. The sentimental value and the emotional distress to the victim caused by the offence can be and are taken into account.
The Animal Health and Welfare (Sale or Supply of Pet Animals) Regulations 2019 brought in new registration requirements which anyone trading in pet animals must adhere to. Both the person and the premises used must be registered with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Sellers must keep records of who they buy animals from and they may not sell animals younger than the ages specified.
The Microchipping of Dogs Regulations also apply. All dogs must be microchipped by the age of 12 weeks. If one is advertising a dog for sale, the advertisement must now have the microchip code. Together these steps have acted as a strong deterrent, and along with the preventative measures taken and the reopening of the country, we saw a significant reduction in reported incidents of dog theft in Ireland at that time.
In 2021, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, launched Working Together for Ireland's Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025, which is Ireland's first stand-alone animal welfare strategy. Delivering on the strategy and in response to the Programme for Government commitment, Minister McConalogue established a new independently chaired Advisory Council on Companion Animal Welfare. Independent members with a range of expertise and experience were appointed, including members from Veterinary Ireland, UCD, the ISPCA, the DSPCA, Dogs Trust, and others. The Council is a critical stakeholder grouping that is assisting Minister McConalogue’s Department in prioritising and advancing policy initiatives relating to companion animals.
Changes to criminal law can only be a part of the answer. The Government is examining pet welfare, control and ownership in the round. Should any future evidence-based recommendation coming from the work being undertaken by Government colleagues on this important issue include an amendment to criminal legislation, my officials will work collaboratively to establish the best way forward.
444. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the progress to date in determination of an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22669/24]
View answerThe naturalisation application from the person referred to by the Deputy continues to be processed by my Department.
I understand the extended wait times can be frustrating for applicants and my Department has been working hard to clear backlogs.
It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.
My Department is taking a number of steps to speed up the processing of applications and a number of digitisation measures have been introduced to increase efficiency in the process, including eVetting and online payments.
My Department has recently moved from paper to online based citizenship applications. This is one of a number of measures introduced in an effort to optimise the application process and enhance the overall customer service experience. As part of the new online process, customers are issued with an acknowledgment on submission of the online application. The forms provide a seamless application process and help guide applicants through what is required for an application.
In a little over two years the Citizenship Division of my Department has gone from processing around 12,000 applications a year to processing over 20,000 applications. This 66% increase in processing has been achieved through digitising and streamlining processes.
Finally, I can advise the Deputy that the Citizenship Division of my Department continues to communicate regularly with all applicants to keep them informed as to updates on processing times and arrangements.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: IMoireachtasmail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
445. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice if visa applications in respect of the family of a person (details supplied) will be reviewed as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22670/24]
View answerI can inform the Deputy that following full consideration by a Visa Officer, the visa applications referred to were refused. Letters issued to the applicants on 26 April 2024 outlines the reasons for the refusals. An appeals process, is available which allows applicants, in the event of a refusal of the application at first instance, to address the factors which gave rise to that decision. It is open to the applicants to appeal these decisions, in writing, within two months of the date of the refusals. Appeals must be in written form and sent to the Visa Appeals Officer in the relevant Visa Office. Faxed or emailed appeals will not be considered. All visa applicants are advised that the onus is on them to provide as much information in support of their application as they feel is necessary. Guidelines in this regard are posted on our website. Applicants that meticulously follow these guidelines have an improved prospect of receiving a positive decision at first instance. When making an appeal, the applicants should take into account the reasons for refusal listed in the refusal letters. The appeals should include any further information or additional documentation they wish to have considered, and should be sent for the attention of the Visa Appeals Officer, in the relevant Visa Office, where the matter will be considered afresh. They will find further details on the appeals process at the following link:www.irishimmigration.ie/appeal-a-negative-decision/ Full consideration will be given to any appeals received on behalf of the applicants, however the onus is on the applicants to satisfy the Visa Officer that a visa should be granted. The applicants are advised not to pay for travel tickets before they receive decisions on their visas. There is no guarantee that any individual application will be successful.Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: IMoireachtasmail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
446. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice when an application (details supplied) will be processed; the reasons for the delay; if she will expedite the application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22733/24]
View answerThe naturalisation applications from the people referred to by the Deputy continues to be processed by my Department.
I understand the extended wait times can be frustrating for applicants and my Department has been working hard to clear backlogs.
It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. However, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.
My Department is taking a number of steps to speed up the processing of applications and a number of digitisation measures have been introduced to increase efficiency in the process, including eVetting and online payments.
My Department has recently moved from paper to online based citizenship applications. This is one of a number of measures introduced in an effort to optimise the application process and enhance the overall customer service experience. As part of the new online process, customers are issued with an acknowledgment on submission of the online application. The forms provide a seamless application process and help guide applicants through what is required for an application.
In a little over two years the Citizenship Division of my Department has gone from processing around 12,000 applications a year to processing over 20,000 applications. This 66% increase in processing has been achieved through digitising and streamlining processes.
Finally, I can advise the Deputy that the Citizenship Division of my Department continues to communicate regularly with all applicants to keep them informed as to updates on processing times and arrangements.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility at: IMoireachtasmail@justice.ie, which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Question process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in the cases where the response is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
447. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the number of inspections in 2023 and to date in 2024 by the Private Security Authority of accommodations contracted to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth in the context of enforcement of personal working at those locations to hold an enforcement guard licence. [22776/24]
View answerThe Private Security Authority (PSA), an independent body under the aegis of my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for licensing and regulating the private security industry in Ireland. The PSA regulates a wide range of security services including security guards and enforcement guards. I am informed by the PSA that the appropriate licence for those providing security at accommodation centres is that of security guard and not enforcement guard as referenced in the Deputy’s question. The PSA has also informed me that it carried out 3 investigations in 2023 and 4 investigations to date in 2024 into the provision of security services at accommodation centres contracted to the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.
448. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Justice the length of the waiting list in Limerick, Dublin, Cork and Galway for appointments to apply for Irish residency permits; and if she will clarify whether language schools can submit group applications for visiting students to expedite the process due to the delays in issuing permits versus the duration they are valid for. [22811/24]
View answerMy Department's Registration Office in Burgh Quay is responsible for registering immigration permissions for non-EU/EEA/UK/Swiss nationals residing in the Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow areas only, including the online renewal system. As part of the Department’s ongoing work to meet the demand for first-time registration appointments, on 10 January 2022, a Freephone service (1800 800 630) was introduced for customers. The current operating hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and all appointments for Dublin, Kildare, Meath, and Wicklow-based customers to register their immigration permission are issued through this service. Appointment slots are released up to 3 months ahead, with the earliest currently available typically within 1 week. The Immigration Service website provides a live update for Dublin, Kildare, Meath, and Wicklow-based renewals being processed on its website and is currently processing applications submitted the week commencing 08 April 2024. Group applications are not accepted for registration. An individual application is required. An Garda Síochána has responsibility for the first registration and renewal of immigration residence permissions for non-EU/EEA UK/Swiss nationals residing outside of the Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow areas. I have no role in regard to the scheduling of these appointments. The Garda Commissioner has advised that the current approximate waiting times apply for a registration appointment in Cork is 16 weeks, in Galway is 11 weeks and in Limerick is between 16 - 18 weeks.
My Department and An Garda Síochána continue to engage intensively on the transfer of certain immigration functions to my Department. In April the registration of immigration residence permissions for counties Meath, Kildare and Wicklow, transferred from An Garda Síochána to my Department, which is already responsible for Dublin. It is intended that my Department will assume responsibility for registrations nationwide, the transfer is expected to be substantially completed within the next 12 months.
449. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice further to Parliamentary Question No. 506 of 30 April 2024, if she has received the necessary information from the Garda authorities in order to answer the question; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22875/24]
View answerAs the Deputy will be aware, under the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the administration and management of An Garda Síochána, including all Garda Operations. As Minister for Justice, I have no direct role in these matters.
I am informed that Operation Satailt focuses on criminality within communities across the DMR North Division and seeks to target those individuals involved in the sale and supply of controlled drugs, associated criminality, and money laundering offences and to deprive those involved in such crime of the illegally obtained assets.
Along with bringing persons living off the proceeds of crime before the Courts, this initiative sends a message to the communities that An Garda Síochána are actively targeting persons in their communities involved in criminality.
The Garda authorities have informed me that from September 2023 up until March 2024 a total of 41 people have been arrested and charged under Operation Satailt.
I am advised that this information is operational and may be subject to change.
450. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice the number of persons arrested and charged with begging in a public place within the DMR in the years of 2023 and to date in 2024 in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22876/24]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, under Irish legislation it is not an offence, in and of itself, to beg. However, Irish legislation does contain a number of targeted measures to deal with certain public order offences indirectly connected with some aspects of begging. These are contained in the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 2011.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a search of the PULSE database was conducted for all incidents of ‘Begging’ in the Dublin Region where persons were subsequently arrested, and which resulted in a charge or summons.
I am advised that in 2023, 116 people were arrested for this offence. I am further advised that 28 people were arrested between 1 January 2024 and 16 May 2024.
451. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if she has spoken formally with the executive director of Europol to date in 2024; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22877/24]
View answerI am happy to inform the Deputy that I had a very productive meeting with Europol Executive Director, Ms Catherine De Bolle, in the course of her visit to Dublin in February of this year.
At that meeting I expressed Ireland’s appreciation for the invaluable role Europol plays in supporting Member States’ law enforcement agencies to prevent and combat serious crime across borders. Ongoing liaison between An Garda Síochána and other law enforcement agencies, via Europol, has led to a number of successful joint operations in recent years.
In addition, we also discussed data protection and law enforcement, the use of innovative technology and how it can support the authorities in the fight against terrorism and serious and organised crime.
As the Deputy may be aware Ireland's Liaison Bureau at Europol HQ in The Hague is staffed by two Garda Liaison. These are also supported by the Europol National Unit based at Garda HQ. Ireland is also represented on the Europol Management Board by an Assistant Commissioner.
