Hundreds of asylum seekers suffering long-term illnesses
Over 700 applicants who applied for asylum over six months ago are still at the initial bid stage. Many of them are suffering from long-term illness, according to the Department of Justice.
Figures released by the department reveal that 503 asylum seekers have been in the application process for between six and 12 months while a further 222 made their initial applications over 12 months ago.
However, according to the department, the bulk of the cases outstanding in the refugee applications office are “currently incapable of being processed, in many cases due to long-term certified medical illness.” In some cases, the office does not have an address for the applicant.
There is no breakdown of illnesses the applicants suffer, but the Irish Refugee Council said a number would be victims of torture in their home countries and are suffering the effects.
“The figure is not a surprise. Anything up to 10% (of asylum seekers with whom the council deals) are claiming to be victims of torture,” said James Stapleton of the council.
Mr Stapleton said those who could not be processed because of illness should be given temporary leave to remain. “They do not let their applications die, just take the uncertainty out of the situation,” he said.
Some of those certified as suffering from a long-term illness are likely to have contracted it prior to arriving in the state.
However, Mr Stapleton said that many may be suffering from illnesses brought on by the stress of living in a foreign country, being separated from family and friends and having a feeling of powerlessness because they are unable to work.
Justice Minister Michael McDowell has again ruled out any move to allow asylum applicants to take up paid employment.
He said it would have a negative impact on the asylum processing system, claiming it would lead to a huge increase in the numbers applying.
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