Written answers

Tuesday, 24 May 2022

Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

International Protection

Photo of Bernard DurkanBernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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489. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if his attention and that of his officials has been drawn to the situation of the female Afghan journalist (details supplied); if his Department has been able to provide any assistance to them with a view to providing an emergency visa to relocate here given the circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26296/22]

Photo of Roderic O'GormanRoderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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In response to the crisis in Afghanistan in August 2021, my Department, through the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP), has made approximately 545 programme refugee places available for humanitarian cases from Afghanistan. My Department has co-operated with a wide range of organisations to identify individuals and families whom we could welcome to Ireland under the IRPP. We have prioritised human rights defenders, people supporting women’s organisations, LGBTI+ activists, journalists and those most at risk.

The person mentioned has been granted access to the programme and has been issued with the relevant documentation, allowing for entry into Ireland. My officials are currently working with colleagues in civil society to make the necessary travel and accommodation arrangements.

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