Dáil debates

Thursday, 25 November 2021

Ceisteanna Eile - Other Questions

International Protection

11:30 am

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

The Deputy is right that, as a nation, we have travelled to every corner of the world and understand how important it is to be welcomed when we go to another country. We are trying to make sure that this process is as easy and as straightforward as possible, that those who need it the most can apply and that their family members can apply on their behalf. We do not want families to be split up so we will make sure that that does not happen. The Deputy asked how we can prioritise those who are most at risk. We know there are certain groups of people, in particular women and children, who are more at risk. That said, if a family comprises a father, mother and children, obviously they will not be separated. We need to balance a speedy application process with the need to make sure that we have robust measures in place and that we can establish the beneficiaries and their relationship with the sponsoring family here in Ireland. That is very clear. We have to balance the need for this to be done quickly and as easily and as openly as possible for people with, obviously, the regulations that need to be put in place. I assure the Deputy that the timeline we are aiming for is mid-December, which is not too far away. I will provide the Deputy with details of the programme as soon as I can.

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