Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 178: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will review a matter (details supplied) regarding a visa extension. [27908/11]

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 in September 2010 and has been in operation since 1 January 2011. A number of the recommendations contained in the Report came into effect from 1 January 2011 including the introduction of maximum periods of residence in the State on foot of a student permission and the introduction of a differentiated approach between "Degree Programme" courses and those at the "Language or Non-Degree Programme" level. In addition, "Guidelines for non-EEA national students registered in Ireland before 1 January, 2011", which clarify the position in relation to a non-EEA student registered in Ireland prior to that date, have been available on the INIS website at www.inis.gov.ie since January 2011. The Deputy may also wish to note that an e-mail facility - studentreviewgroup@justice.ie - has been in operation to address queries raised by non-EEA students with regard to the operation of the new regime.

I am advised by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (INIS) of my Department that the persons referred to by the Deputy have been dealt with in accordance with the new rules outlined in the New Immigration Regime for Full Time Non-EEA Students and as clearly set out in the guideline notes available on the INIS website.

However it is open to the persons referred to by the Deputy to write directly to studentreviewgroup@justice.ie clearly setting out full details of their case. In any such correspondence the persons referenced should outline in detail the efforts made to secure an employment permit as part of the special "Timed Out" student permission which allows – as a special concession – "Timed Out" Students to apply for an employment permit/green card from within the State. Upon receipt of this information this case will be considered further.