4113. Deputy Catherine Callaghan asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science the engagement his Department has had with Irish higher education institutions regarding Palestinian students who have secured places on undergraduate and postgraduate programmes but are experiencing difficulties obtaining visas; the measures that are being considered to ensure that eligible students are not prevented from taking up their places due to circumstances arising from the conflict in Gaza; [63946/26]

I am very conscious of the extremely challenging humanitarian situation in Palestine, and, in particular, the devastating impact the conflict has had on students, educational opportunities, and the higher education system, including the destruction of institutions in Gaza and the broader challenges facing higher education across Palestine.

I have been contacted by a number higher education institutions and representative bodies on this issue. I recognise the significant efforts of Irish higher education institutions in supporting Palestinian students through scholarship opportunities and other measures that facilitate access to higher education. I appreciate the commitment and dedication demonstrated by institutions and their staff in assisting students to continue their studies in exceptionally difficult circumstances.

However, the granting of visas is a matter for the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, and this Department has no role in the visa application process. Visa applications are assessed by the relevant authorities on a case-by-case basis and on their individual merits, in accordance with Irish immigration law and the applicable legislative and policy framework.