In view of the fact that this unfortunate international tragedy has been going on for many months, what is causing the delay?

There is no delay at our end. We have made all the arrangements. We are waiting for the refugees to arrive.

Is the Minister aware that the initial announcement that the refugees would be accepted by this country was made months ago and since then we have been getting nothing but excuses as to why that is not happening? Will the Minister personally intervene to ensure that all the red tape is cut?

I want to assure the Deputy that there is no delay at our end.

Those unfortunate people would not agree with the Minister.

I cannot control events in the Far East.

The Minister cannot even control them in Dublin.

These people are dying on the high seas because no one will take them.

Is the Minister aware that as far back as January this year bulletins were broadcast on Radio Telefís Eireann—radio and television—stating that the Government were accepting refugees? The Minister stated we were accepting 100 about May. The delay has been very long——

There is no delay at our end. I cannot direct the traffic from the Far East.