Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill 2008

Submission to Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women’s Rights

March 2008

ICOS welcomes the Government’s initiative through the publication of this Bill to introduce much needed reform to our Immigration and Protection system and the organisation appreciates the opportunity to contribute to the discussion. ICOS believes that immigration into this country is a permanent and positive reality and supports any attempt to make our immigration policies more transparent, accessible, and respectful of the human rights of all prospective migrants including international students. ICOS will focus its comments on elements of the proposals that impact on immigration for the purposes of study.

ICOS’ comments are summarised under headings as follows:

• Customer Service
• Clarity regarding regulations
• Lawful and Unlawful presence in the State
• Visa approvals and reviews
• Pre-clearance for visa exempt nationals
• Family Reunification planning to stay for over 3 months