Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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162. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will address a matter (details supplied) in relation to non-EEA reunification visas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24577/20]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The Policy Document on Non-EEA Family Reunification provides, inter alia, for circumstances where dependent parents can join their direct descendants who are non-EEA nationals lawfully resident in Ireland. The Policy Document sets out the criteria to be considered where such applications are made. Section 18.3 of the document, which is cited in the Deputy’s question, makes it clear that each case must be considered on its particular merits.

The Policy must be read as a whole. For example, section 18.8 of the Policy says that it is not intended to allow elderly dependent relatives, other than parents, come to the State for family reunification purposes except in very rare circumstances.  Furthermore, section 14.1 of the Policy defines ‘dependency’ by reference to the financial and social support the sponsor is already providing and the degree of dependency involved.  These criteria are carefully examined before a decision is made.

Should a permission be granted, it would initially be a temporary permission lasting for 12 months but allowing for renewal, subject to the criteria outlined in Policy Document continuing to be met.