Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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Question 222: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for long-term residency by a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9872/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The position in relation to granting long term residency is as follows: persons who have been legally resident in the State for over five years on the basis of work permit/work authorisation/work visa conditions may apply to the Immigration Division of my Department for a five year residency extension. In that context they may also apply to be exempt from employment permit requirements. The dependants of the aforementioned, who have been legally resident in the State for over five years may also apply for long term residency. This particular long term permission does not exempt the person from employment permit requirements.

Time spent in the State on student conditions cannot be counted towards long term residency. While applications for long term residency are under consideration, the person concerned should ensure that their permission to remain in the State is kept up to date. An application for long term residence from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in August 2006. I understand that applications received in June 2006 are currently being dealt with. As soon as a decision is made on the case, the person concerned will be notified.