Notice regarding on- site hearings before the International Protection Appeals Tribunal for January 2021
As we continue to live and work under Level 5 Covid-19 restrictions and in line with recent government announcements, the Tribunal wishes to confirm that it is not in a position to facilitate on-site hearings up to and including Thursday 28 January 2021.
(Please note details and next steps below)
A communication will issue to each legal representative/appellant directly with regard to the postponement of any affected hearing.
- The Tribunal is now in a position to conduct some appeal hearings by way of audio-video link using the web conferencing platform – Webex. The Tribunal will be in direct contact with legal representatives and appellants in each affected appeal case where an audio-video hearing may be suitable
- It is also open to appellants to withdraw their request for an oral hearing and to have their appeal dealt with on the papers, if the Tribunal Member to whom the appeal has been assigned, is of the opinion that such a course of action is in accordance with fair procedures and natural justice. Again, the Tribunal will be in direct contact with legal representatives and appellants in each affected case.
The Tribunal, as an essential service, will continue to carry out its functions.
- New appeals will be accepted
- Appeal decisions will be issued
- All correspondence and submissions will be accepted.
However, in line with the current COVID-19 public health advice we will be limiting the number of staff attending the Tribunal’s premises and staff will be working remotely, in so far as possible.
Therefore, all correspondence and communication with the Tribunal should be by email to [email protected].
- Please quote your / your client’s Person ID Number and IPAP number in the subject header.
Registrar
11 January 2021