David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The family is regarded in a particular light in this society and we make special provision for it in the Constitution. It is, therefore, a very important element. It is important that we have accurate statements from the Minister. On Second Stage, I queried his statement that the average number of members of family for which applications for reunification were made under the scheme was 20. I do not believe that for one second and an analysis of the figures released by the Department suggests the figure is inaccurate. One application was for more than 70 family members, which is most extraordinary.

The amendment is important because the Government trots out arguments on matters such as the housing assistance payment, HAP, scheme. However, that is a temporary measure for which narrow parameters have been set in respect of its operation, including eligibility. In addition, the temporary scheme for family reunification is fundamentally different from an amendment to legislation which places family reunification on a statutory footing.

I will support the amendment, although I have one query regarding the Bill. Section 2 refers to circumstances in which "the sponsor is a civil partner". Given that many of the countries from which refugees come do not make any provision for civil partnerships, this wording is rather unusual. I suppose there may be one or two countries which make such provision but many of the societies and countries from which people seek refuge in this country do not make any provision for civil partnerships. In fact, many are extremely homophobic, although not all civil partners are of the same sex. This point needs to be registered.