Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy outlined, we are in a very difficult and complex situation. Taking one action can potentially have an impact in another space. It is really important to have joined-up thinking and provide as much reassurance to everybody who is impacted by this. I can speak to the Deputy separately about the individual cases. We want to reassure people that they will not be deported throughout this pandemic. The figures show that this is the approach we have taken from the outset. Where there are complex and difficult cases, I encourage people to continue to engage with the relevant agencies and the Department. As the Deputy noted, situations change and different scenarios arise. Until we are made aware of them, it is hard to respond in great detail. Where situations change or difficult scenarios arise, we will try to work with them to find the most appropriate response we can and to respond in the most compassionate way we can.

See this speech in context