328. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if his Department accepts and considers applications made under section 4(7) of the Immigration Act 2004 from non-nationals who do not possess a current permission to remain in the State; if so, the legal basis upon which such applications are considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52585/26]

329. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of applications received under section 4(7) of the Immigration Act 2004 from persons who did not hold a current immigration permission at the time of application in each of the past five years; the number granted and refused; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52586/26]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 328 and 329 together.

Section 4 (7) of the Immigration Act 2004 provides that 'A permission under this section may be renewed or varied by the Minister, or by an immigration officer on his or her behalf, whether or not an application is made by the non-national concerned.'

I can advise the Deputy that a person who does not hold a valid immigration permission is not eligible to apply for a permission under section 4(7) of the Immigration Act 2004.