Dublin: The government is set to deliberate on a proposal concerning payment for refugees arriving in Ireland during tomorrow’s session. Social Security Minister Heather Humphreys, alongside the Attorney General, is leading the discussion on the International Protection (IP) payment scheme, which also encompasses Ukrainian refugees.
Prime Minister Simon Harris and the leaders of the government parties are currently in talks regarding this proposal. Earlier announcements from the Prime Minister indicated an impending review of migrant payments within weeks.
Prime Minister Harris has proposed a collaborative effort among various government departments to fortify Ireland’s immigration system in alignment with EU standards. Further decisions on this matter are slated for discussion during Tuesday’s cabinet meeting.
Meanwhile, recent figures from the Department of Integration highlight that over 30,000 individuals are currently housed in direct provision and emergency accommodations.
Minister Heather underscored the importance of conducting a thorough review of payments in conjunction with the Departments of Justice and Integration to uphold legal and international obligations towards refugees. The involvement of the Attorney General ensures adherence to legal entitlements without excess or deficit.
Efforts to expedite the processing of international protection applications are underway, alongside plans to establish secure refugee sites on land. Additionally, forthcoming government initiatives aim to diminish Ireland’s attractiveness to economic migrants, a matter also under the Prime Minister’s consideration.
Ireland is committed to implementing a robust refugee and immigration system consistent with its EU counterparts. Prompt decision-making underscores the government’s dedication to swiftly resolving this issue.
Minister Paschal Donohoe emphasised the government’s commitment to treating arriving refugees with compassion and equity while responsibly managing taxpayers’ funds.
In contrast, opposition leaders, including Sinn Féin’s Louise O’Reilly TD and Labour’s Ged Nash TD, criticised the government’s handling of immigration, citing systemic failures and a lack of empathy towards refugees. They lamented the absence of a conducive environment for asylum seekers and called for more robust solutions.
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