Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 370: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason persons are refused visas by his Department while other persons appear to have no such difficulty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17894/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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An extensive set of criteria is applied when assessing any visa application. These criteria, to a large extent, depend on the context in which the application is made, the personal circumstances of the applicant and the nature and purpose of the application. In assessing any visa application various matters will be considered, including whether the applicant will fully honour the conditions of the visa, for example, it is unlikely that the applicant would over-stay the length of time applied for. The visa officer will have regard to information provided and to such factors as the applicant's ties and general circumstances in their country of origin in coming to a decision. Therefore, the Deputy can be assured that each application is dealt with on merit and if criteria for the approval of the visa application is met, the visa will be approved.