Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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1333. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the qualifications, training, and regulatory oversight which will apply to individuals appointed as legal counsellors under the International Protection Bill 2025, given concerns that permitting non-qualified personnel to advise applicants could undermine legal privilege and fair procedures, as highlighted by the Bar of Ireland. [59490/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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The General Scheme of a new International Protection Bill to give effect to the measures of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact was approved by Government on 29 April 2025. As the Deputy is aware, the Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Home Affairs and Migration recently conducted pre-legislative scrutiny of the General Scheme. The drafting of the Bill is well advanced. It is expected that the Bill will be published by the end of the year. Enactment of the Bill and commencement of the Act is required by 11 June 2026.

It is my intention that the International Protection Bill will make provision for the provision of legal counselling to applicants for international protection, as required by the 2024 Asylum Procedures Regulation and the 2024 Asylum and Migration Management Regulation, and in accordance with the requirements of those Regulations.

It is important to point out that legal counselling as provided for in the Pact measures will be provided to applicants in addition to any legal assistance and representation that applicants may obtain. The Pact measures do not require legal counselling to be provided only by qualified lawyers.

Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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1334. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality his views on introducing provisions to guarantee continued access to healthcare for international protection applicants who are subject to deportation orders or accommodation transfers, particularly to maintain life-sustaining medication and continuity of care, as recommended by a charity (details supplied). [59492/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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The Health Service Executive is responsible for providing health services in all communities, including people resident in IPAS accommodation

People seeking international protection access health services through mainstream HSE services, including primary care and GP services, referral to specialist services, and urgent or emergency healthcare services.

Any person applying for international protection residing in IPAS accommodation is entitled to apply for a medical card and IPAS Resident Welfare Services, along with NGO advocates, can support people to access health and social care services as needed.