Brian Hayes (Fine Gael)

I wish to bring to the Leader's attention the Immigration Bill 2002. She will be aware that the House discussed all aspects and Stages of the Bill some time ago and that it is still with the Dáil. However, I understand that last evening, at the dead of night, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform published a raft of amendments to the Bill, many of which are expressly against the interests of those seeking refugee protection in this country. I understand the Human Rights Commission has highlighted many aspects of the amendments that, in its view, are draconian, unfair and against the interests of those attempting to have their claim for refugee status properly assessed.