Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 152: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the position with regard to students from outside the EU studying for a three-year degree course in computer science, who were informed by a college before the end of the first year that the remaining two years will not be provided (details supplied); the implications for their study visas of transferring to an alternative college to complete the course; and if he can outline the general situation on this matter. [14545/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the 'New Immigration Regime for Full Time non-EEA Students' was published on 22 September 2010. The Report contains more than 20 recommendations designed to reform the student immigration regime in a manner that is better integrated with Ireland's immigration policy generally while providing a stronger regulatory framework for the sustainable development of the international education sector. A number of the recommendations contained in the Report came into effect from 1 January 2011. These recommendations include the introduction of maximum periods of residence in the State on foot of a student permission and the introduction of a differentiated approach as between "Degree Programme" courses and those at the "Language or Non-Degree Programme" level.

In order to ensure a smooth transition from the old regime to the new a special dedicated e-mail address - studentreviewgroup@justice.ie - has been put in place within the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. This facility allows students to send in details of their case for consideration, in the context of the new regime. To date this service has dealt with approximately 1500 queries from students and education providers regarding the operation of the new regime.

In relation to the case referred to by the Deputy, it is not possible to give a definitive answer because each student's options can depend on their immigration history (for instance the number of years they have been in Ireland and the courses they have pursued). It will also be necessary for my officials to look in more detail at the course referred to.

Therefore I would advise the Deputy that, in this case, the students should write to studentreviewgroup@justice.ie setting out the full details of their particular case. The students can expect a full and prompt response to their queries.