Fianna Fáil TD for Galway East Anne Rabbitte has reiterated her calls for the Minister for Justice, Charlie Flanagan, to halt the deportation of an Athenry family.
Deputy Rabbitte met with Lucivaldo Araujo Silva and his family during the recent election. Mr Araujo Silva and his partner live in the Galway town with their three children (12, 9 and 2 years old), all of whom were born in Ireland. Mr Araujo Silva is currently being held in Cloverhill Prison ahead of his deportation on Tuesday, unless the Minister intervenes.
Deputy Rabbitte commented, “It’s heartbreaking to see this Athenry family on the verge of being torn apart. I spoke to the Minister for Justice, Charlie Flanagan, on Thursday about the case and wrote to him on Friday seeking an intervention on humanitarian grounds. This family is much loved in the area and their friends and neighbours are rallying around them to try and save this family.
“Numerous teachers, business owners, friends and family have reached out to me about this and it’s causing such stress for the community. It’s also having a serious emotional impact on the family and their friends. It’s devastating.
“The family’s solicitors have contacted the Minister and are investigating what other avenues may be open to the family. The clock is counting down though and there’s now less than 48 hours left before time runs out.
“If Mr. Araujo Silva is deported, the family are very concerned what may then happen to them, with the threat of deportation also hanging over them. The family’s fear is palpable,” concluded Deputy Rabbitte.
