Ivana Bacik (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response but I am disappointed that he does not suggest any alternative. In my latest correspondence with the travel document section of the immigration service, I raised the possibility of a laissez-passer document being issued through, for example, the Red Cross as suggested by the Minister of State and that is currently being explored. The response I got from INIS was that the travel document section is exploring options for addressing the issue. Officials are aware of this matter but for months now the response has been that they are exploring options. I know that the family concerned is anxious to explore all options, including the option referenced by the Minister of State. Nobody expects Irish officials to put their lives at risk. We understand the need for checks and balances but given that permission has been granted and the very dangerous situation in which this family is in, I ask for an opportunity to meet the Minister of State directly to discuss this particular case in more depth. I am pleased to have had this opportunity to raise it as a more general issue as well.