What is ORAC's remit for collecting and retaining information relating to applications for family reunification?

The Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) confers responsibility on ORAC for the investigation of family reunification applications and to report to the Minister for Justice and Law reform for a decision in each case.

ORAC issues a questionnaire to the refugee for completion to assist in the investigation of the application. ORAC may also issue written requests to the refugee for certain information and documentary evidence it considers necessary during the course of its investigation.

ORAC requires this information to assist in its investigation of the relationship between the refugee and the person who is the subject of the application and the domestic circumstances of the person.

The ORAC fully respects your right to privacy. Your personal details will be treated with the highest standard of security and confidentiality and strictly in accordance with the Data Protection Acts, 1988 and 2003. Your personal information and information relating to your family member / dependent family member who are the subject of the family reunification application may be disclosed to other Irish Government Departments and other public bodies for immigration purposes.

You do not have to provide the information requested by ORAC. However, if you do not provide some or all of the required information and/or documentary evidence requested by ORAC, it may have an adverse affect on the outcome of your application.