Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I have had good discussions with the Minister, Deputy McDowell, on his Bill and this one. Officials of my Department have worked with officials of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The idea is to create a one-stop-shop to provide a much more effective facility and pathway for people coming to this country. In the context of economic migration, it is hoped people will enjoy immediate family reunification. The Bill will be liberal. Perhaps some of the stereotypical views articulated about the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform may not be reflected in the legislation. We have all moved on in how we handle what has been a rapid and recent phenomenon, namely, the growth in migration levels.

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