What does the RDC do?
The RDC provides a Country of Origin Information (COI) Query service in the form of COI Query Responses. Query Responses are completed in line with the EU Common Guidelines for Processing Country of Origin Information and the EUAA Report Methodology. It also prepares Country Information Packs on select countries annually.
Who may avail of the Research and Query service offered by the RDC?
- Staff of the Legal Aid Board
- Staff within the Department of Justice
- Solicitors on the Legal Aid Board’s International Protection Solicitors Panel
- Barristers on the Legal Aid Board’s International Protection sub-panel for Barristers
How do I complete and submit a query form?
You can access the online query form or email us at research@legalaidboard.ie
How should I word a query to get the best possible information?
All queries to the RDC should be phrased using impartial and neutral language. Our role is to source factual information relating to the human rights, security, political, societal, economic, legal, humanitarian, cultural, and geographic conditions in countries of origin.
Our task is to provide relevant, reliable, balanced, accurate and verifiable country of origin information.
When submitting a query to us, phrase your questions as clearly as possible and avoid very general questions (e.g. Can you provide information on Syria?) or questions which are so specific that the likelihood of information being available is minimal (e.g. What is the colour of the walls in the prison in Malanje?)
How long does it take to answer a query?
The RDC requires a minimum of 5 days to answer a query. If for any reason your deadline cannot be met, a member of our team will contact you to discuss. If a revised deadline is acceptable to you, this will then be arranged. All queries subject to a statutory deadline should be clearly marked as such when submitting to the RDC.
