Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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89. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the average length of time persons that have received a positive recommendation from the International Protection Office are waiting for a declaration of refugee or subsidiary protection status in tabular form; the reason for the extensive delays experienced at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9936/19]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the receipt of a recommendation letter from the International Protection Office (IPO) should not be interpreted as a decision on the person’s international protection application. The IPO makes recommendations to the Minister for Justice and Equality, and due diligence must be carried out by INIS on each case before the formal letter of confirmation is issued on my behalf.

The current average processing times by INIS for grants of refugee status and subsidiary protection is 31 days.  The average can be distorted by some cases that take somewhat longer to process.  The INIS is currently examining the processes in this area with a view to ensuring that decisions are made at the earliest possible point.