Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 82 together.

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service, INIS, of my Department operates a flexible, pragmatic and humane approach to the status of non-EEA nationals, both men and women, who are in situations of domestic violence. Any person in such a situation can approach the INIS directly or through An Garda Síochána or a non-governmental organisation and their case will be examined with sensitivity. All cases are addressed on an individual basis and independent status is granted where the known circumstances of the case warrant it. In considering the circumstances of each such application every effort is made to ensure that the most appropriate permission stamp is granted consistent with overall public policy and the requirement to ensure that the integrity of the immigration system is upheld.

I am advised that very few non-EEA nationals who have experienced domestic violence have applied to my Department for independent status. There have been no more than a dozen such permissions granted. I would point out that not every victim of domestic violence will require a new residence permission. It is possible that a victim might be resident with their own independent status. However, where applications were made and the persons concerned were able to substantiate their claim with appropriate reports, an immigration status was granted which allowed them to access the labour force and to apply for State aid where required.

An Garda Síochána and non-governmental organisations working in the immigration area and those who offer services to victims of domestic violence are fully aware of the process and have acknowledged that the INIS will deal sensitively with domestic violence issues. I am satisfied that this system addresses the immigration requirements of non-EEA nationals who find themselves in such a terrible situation.

The primary concern for victims of domestic violence, whether they are Irish citizens or foreign nationals, is their physical safety. This concern is a primary focus of Cosc, the national office for the prevention of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

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