Ireland to Impose Tighter Limits on Refugee Intake, Justice Minister Warns

Dublin: Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has said Ireland will impose restrictions on the number of refugees it accepts, warning that continued high inflows risk undermining social cohesion.

While acknowledging that welcoming asylum seekers is a positive aspiration, the minister said it is no longer realistic at current levels. “Last year, 18,500 refugees arrived in Ireland. That number must be reduced,” he said. “If it is not, social cohesion will collapse. More tents will appear on our streets and the system will move beyond the control of government.”

The minister did not specify a target figure for future refugee admissions. He also reiterated that the government plans to reduce the number of foreign students entering Ireland to study English. Around 60,000 students arrived last year for English-language courses, with the minister claiming some are using this route primarily as a means to access employment.

He said stricter controls on English-language schools will be introduced in the initial phase of reforms, noting that a large proportion of students come from Latin American countries, including Brazil, and that the system is being abused.

Minister O’Callaghan also highlighted that Ireland’s population is growing at a rate of 1.6% per year, which he described as unusually high. While population growth supports economic success, he warned that it is placing “enormous pressure” on public services.

Family Reunification to Be Tightened

The minister confirmed that family reunification rules will also be made more stringent, citing both public interest and cost considerations. He said the arrival of elderly parents and young children increases demands on public services, and that applicants seeking family reunification will be required to demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.

“Family reunification will be possible for those who can meet the required means,” he said, stressing that the policy changes are intended to ensure sustainability and fairness in the system.

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