asked the Minister for Justice if he will consider waiving the conditions for naturalisation for people who settle in this country who originally arrived here as political refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am not empowered under the relevant legislation, namely, the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, to do what the Deputy suggests.

Would the Minister consider amending the legislation to give him those powers in such circumstances?

I have no reason to believe that I need the powers and I have no notice of any reasons as to why I should consider a change. If the Deputy has any information or knows of any case that would warrant a change, I would be prepared to look at it and talk to the Deputy about it. But as of now I have no knowledge of any request from anybody to bring about a change.

I will write to the Minister about it.

Question No.12 is for written reply.