Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael)
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579. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the steps she is taking to create new pathways for long-term undocumented persons and their dependants who meet specified criteria to regularise their status within 18 months of the formation of the Government, bearing in mind EU and common travel area commitments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39656/20]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Government contains a commitment to create new pathways for long-term undocumented people and their dependents meeting specified criteria to regularise their status within 18 months of the formation of the Government, bearing in mind European Union and Common Travel Area commitments.

The necessary work to give effect to this commitment is currently being advanced in my Department and is being informed by an assessment of international best practice including our EU and CTA commitments. A proposal will be published as soon as possible.

I would encourage any person who is resident in the State without permission to contact my Department or their local immigration office and to take all appropriate steps to regularise their own and their family's status. In all cases, people must engage with the authorities if they wish to be permitted to remain here legally.