Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The scheme is aimed specifically at the families of those in Ireland who are in receipt of international protection and come from areas of current conflict, including Syria, as has been mentioned specifically in the question. Residents in Ireland who are not beneficiaries of international protection may apply to have family members join them under the guidelines set out in the policy document on non-EEA family reunification under the terms of the scheme operated by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. I assure the Deputy that I will continue to apply my discretion in the area of family reunification for those outside of the international protection process. My initiative under the programme is specifically aimed at those most in need and, in doing so, it will address many of the motivating concerns of Members of the House, including Deputy Gino Kenny.

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