Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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432. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will review a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35019/17]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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It is not appropriate for me to comment on the circumstances of a particular case. However, from the information provided by the Deputy, it is likely that this case concerns the protection of minors arriving at our borders and in particular, unaccompanied minors. An Immigration Officer may seek to establish that there are no child protection issues arising where a child under 18 years presents for entry to the State at the border. For this purpose, an immigration officer may raise a number of queries with the minor in question to establish his or her circumstances. This may include requesting any documentation that might assist in the matter.

These routine enquiries are in place to protect potentially vulnerable children and those who may potentially be trafficked into the State. Any enquiries should be undertaken in a manner that is friendly and fully respects the dignity of the person concerned. I understand that further contact has been made with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) in regard to the matter highlighted and that a reply will issue as a priority.