Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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278. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether current and retired Gardaí used to interview asylum seekers; and the cost of each of these interviews. [7139/25]

Peadar Tóibín (Meath West, Aontú)
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291. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of retired Gardaí who have been paid to interview asylum seekers; the number of interviews they have conducted; the amount they are being paid per interview; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6939/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I can assure the Deputy that I am fully committed to ensuring that Ireland’s International Protection system is robust and rules based, and that our borders are protected. In 2024 the International Protection Office (IPO) delivered over 14,000 first decisions compared to over 8,500 in 2023, while the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) closed around 3,100 appeals in 2024 compared to over 1,700 in 2023. In 2024 the IPO scheduled over 17,700 interviews while 2,064 interviews have been arranged up to the end of January 2025.

This substantial increase in processing results from investment in increased staffing levels, technology and infrastructure, as well as the increased use of panel members and Tribunal members at the IPO and IPAT respectively.

There are currently 6 full time and 88 part time Tribunal Members at IPAT who make decisions on appeals with the administrative staff providing governance and organisational support. Until mid-2024, it was necessary for a candidate to have practised as a barrister or solicitor for 5 years before being appointed as a Tribunal Member by the Minister for Justice, following a competition run by the Public Appointments Service. The entry qualification is now two years practice.

People may apply to be members of the IPO panel if they hold a relevant degree, or have a minimum of two years’ experience in the area of international protection or immigration, as well as meeting other criteria. Panel members may not be serving civil or public servants (including Gardaí). It is open to anyone to apply if they meet the essential qualifications and requirements.

The complex nature of the International Protection Act 2015 requires in-depth training and the IPO works closely with the UNHCR in developing and delivering this training to its staff and panel members.

Following this period of extensive training panel members undertake interviews, draft reports and recommendations which are then considered by staff of the International Protection Office.

I am informed that the IPO currently contracts 240 panel members, of whom 34 are former Gardaí.

The schedule of fees payable is attached.