Ms Oonagh Buckley:

I thank the Senator. I have previously answered that question, but I will give the figures again. There is no doubt they have been very sorely affected by Covid. The Catherine Day report suggests that per annum, on average, 3,500 people will apply for asylum or international protection. That is the target in respect of which we need to ensure the system is washing its face to keep abreast of applications. Last year, unfortunately because of Covid, we were not able to do that many decisions. Up to 31 October 2021, just over 1,800 applications had been processed and, I am sorry, I have lost my figures.