A feature of the Irish asylum process is the high proportion of cases where the independent Refugee Applications Commission is unable to complete the investigation of the asylum claim because the applicant turns out to be unavailable. Over 6,000 applications were withdrawn last year alone, a figure equivalent to 52% of all asylum applications lodged in 2002. Some 12,677 interviews were scheduled between January and December 2002. I want to make it clear that these are scheduled in circumstances where the preparation is done by the official in question. Very frequently, arrangements are made for lawyers and interpreters to be present. These arrangements are made and a time is provided in very dignified and decent circumstances in the ORAC offices in Dublin. Of the 12,677 interviews, only 5,997, that is 47%, proceeded. Of those who did not show for interview, a total of 1,380 failed to attend again on the second time of asking. That is the equivalent of 12% of all asylum applications lodged in 2002. Senators will perhaps be surprised to hear that in some cases the investigation of the asylum claim cannot even get off the ground because the applicant, having made the claim at the point of entry in the State, subsequently fails to attend at the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner.