Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

On my question to give compassionate consideration to Olukunle Elukanlo, the student from Palmerstown, which would allow him to return to complete his leaving certificate studies, obviously the question has been overtaken by events. The Minister's decision to revoke the deportation order is a humane one which illustrates the importance of examining the facts of each case.

The important aspect of this case was that the student had spent the past couple of years preparing for the leaving certificate, with just three months to go. If the Minister had not made this decision, it would have left the student in limbo, because he would not have had sufficient time to prepare for the equivalent examination in Nigeria. The decision to allow him to return to Ireland to complete his leaving certificate is a humane one and means he will have something to show for what he has invested in his studies and will have a qualification which it is hoped will help him to pursue further education or a career. I am sure the students and teachers in his school will be very pleased with the Minister's decision. I am based in the general area of Palmerstown and used to be on the board of management of the school.

The Minister will be aware that the leaving certificate examination is very important. While one works individually, one is also part of a larger school group. The teachers in the school help people with their efforts. As many people were affected by what happened, I welcome the Minister's decision in the matter. It required a lot of integrity on his part to make such a decision and to change his mind in response to people's requests.