Madam, - I am one of those people affected by the refusal of residence rights as I am a non-EU national married to an EU citizen (July 26th). My paperwork is incomplete because my husband and I did not live in another member state prior to moving to Ireland. We met and were married in the US, where we resided for our 13+ year marriage (I am a US citizen). We moved to Ireland when my husband received a fellowship grant, and we wanted to live closer to his family.
I am not a burden on the State, as my husband supports our family. I am allowed to apply for a PPS number and driving licence and basically live as a legal resident - except that I am not.
I am concerned that I will also receive a "notice of intent to deport" because of the current laws. I can understand Ireland's need to control immigration to the country, but certainly separating spouses cannot be the best way to about it.
Couples married legally, and in the eyes of God, should be afforded the basic human right of being allowed to keep their families together. I have yet to hear whether my petition will be approved. The Immigration Office states they have six months to review my case, but that time has passed.
This is of concern to me, as I am now in limbo. I have not suffered as much as others, but the idea that I may be separated from my family is terrifying. - Yours, etc,
CYNTHIA CATON, Barna, Co Galway.