Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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85. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality when she will introduce a pre-clearance scheme for non-visa required elderly dependent relatives; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37226/14]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, the policy document published by my predecessor at the end of 2013, in respect of family reunification, outlined the rationale for moving to a system where applications for such residence were considered before the person travelled to the State whether through the visa system or via pre-clearance in the case of those who are not visa required. It was particularly highlighted in the case of elderly dependent relatives. I support that view. However such a pre-clearance requirement is still some way off as there are operational and technological issues that would have to be addressed first. In the meantime such applications are dealt with in accordance with the other relevant guidelines set out in the policy document.