Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The scheme I have introduced for making applications for permission to remain on the basis of parentage of an Irish-born child applies only in cases where the parents are resident in the State. It does not apply in respect of parents who are not resident in the State, nor have I any plans to introduce such a scheme. However, given the limited number of parents involved, the unique nature of their presence in the State at the time of birth of their children here and the specific circumstances of their departure, I am prepared to consider applications on a case-by-case basis subject to the requirements of the common good.