Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 May 2025
307. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Justice the number of S.56 family reunification applications on hand at the family reunification unit; the current processing times of applications; the number of FTE staff in the unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21934/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can advise the Deputy that the average processing time for applications under Section 56 of the International Protection Act 2015 is currently 18 months.
Processing times can vary depending on the nature of the application, the documentation supplied, and the detailed and often complex assessment that is required to be carried out on such applications.
I understand that people are eager to have their families join them in the State and I want to assure anyone who has an application submitted, that the Family Reunification Unit of my Department is doing everything possible to progress applications as quickly as possible.
Currently, there are 1,963 sponsor applications in progress under the Act, accounting for 6,305 family members.
As of 1 May 2025, there are 13.5 staff working in the Family Reunification Unit; staffing levels in the unit are kept under constant review.
