asked the Minister for Justice if a school teacher (details supplied) was prevented from entering this country and lodged overnight in Mountjoy Jail prior to her return to West Germany; and if so, on what grounds this decision was taken.

The answer to the first part of the question is "yes". As refusals of leave to land frequently involve a variety of considerations, some or all of which could not in the public interest be disclosed, it is not the practice to disclose the reasons for refusal in individual cases to anybody other than the person affected.

I received representations in relation to this case. Could the Minister advise me as to the procedure in relation to individuals who are met with a decision of this kind by officials of the Department? Can any explanation be given, not necessarily in public, but certainly in private?

It is normal that a reply would be given to the individuals concerned. If the Deputy would like to communicate with me as a result of the representations he has received I will try to facilitate him.

I would be glad to have a reply to a letter which I believe is in the Minister's Department. I sent a letter to the Minister for Foreign Affairs who informed me that he had sent it on to the Department of Justice.

The Deputy can rest assured that I will look after the letter for him.

Thank you.