Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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117. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if she has raised with the Italian authorities the delays being experienced by Irish officials in Italy in the processing of Syrian refugees for relocation here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34751/16]

David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that delays in operationalising the relocation Programme in Italy have arisen in relation to the need to put in place appropriate security screening of applicants for relocation.  My Department, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, have engaged with the Italian authorities, and with the European Commission, in an attempt resolve the ongoing issue in Italy. I have also intervened directly at Ministerial level to try to progress matters. The Deputy will I am sure appreciate that the Government must satisfy itself as to the suitability and eligibility of all applicants for relocation on all the grounds set out in the relevant EU Council decisions.  I hope that the situation with Italy can be resolved in the near future so that we can fulfil the commitments made, but I want to be clear the situation has not arisen because of any inactivity or lack of urgency on the part of Ireland.