More Than 300 Protest in South Dublin Over Deportation of Oyekanmi Family

Dublin: More than 300 local residents marched to the Department of Social Protection in South Dublin to protest the planned deportation of the Oyekanmi family to South Africa later this week. Demonstrators submitted a letter calling on the government to reconsider the decision.

The family, which includes three children aged between five and 18, has been living in Ireland since 2023. The children are actively involved in local schools and sports clubs, and the protest was organised by parents of fellow students.

Among the organisers was Kara McGuinness, whose son is a school friend of 14-year-old Joseph Oyekanmi. She urged the minister to review the deportation order, describing the family as valued members of the community.

“Joseph, his mother and his brothers have our full support. They are a credit to Ireland. They have built strong ties here over the past three years and have contributed greatly to the community. We want them to be allowed to stay,” she said.

Joseph, a student at Gonzaga College, is described by classmates and residents as a dedicated athlete and talented rugby player. Supporters say he is well regarded both for his sporting achievements and his character.

The family’s application for international protection, as well as their subsequent appeal, was rejected. South Africa is designated by the Irish Government as a safe country of origin.

In a statement, the Department of Justice said that individuals whose applications for international protection are refused and who are issued with a deportation order are required to leave the State. While it does not comment on individual cases, the Department said it is committed to ensuring that the international protection system operates efficiently and that its integrity is upheld.

The Department further clarified that decisions on applications are made independently by the International Protection Office (IPO) and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT), with each case assessed individually in accordance with international asylum law.

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