World Immigration News

Ireland increased immigration enforcement at fastest rate in EU last year, figures show

Release Date: 2025-04-20
Media: breakingnews.ie
Summary: Ireland significantly intensified its immigration enforcement in 2024, recording the fastest rate of increase in deportations among EU member states. According to new data from the European Commission, the number of non-EU nationals removed from Ireland after receiving orders to leave rose by 265% compared to the EU average of 17%. In total, 1,040 people were deported in 2024, up from 285 in 2023.

Most deportees came from Georgia (200), Brazil (160), Jordan (155), South Africa (85), Nigeria (45), and Albania (40). The returns included both voluntary and assisted forced returns.

Ireland also issued over 3,200 deportation orders in 2024—an increase of 206% from the previous year—placing it second only to Spain in terms of growth rate. Many of those ordered to leave came from countries designated as "safe," including Georgia, Brazil, Algeria, and Albania, meaning their asylum applications are processed more quickly.

The Irish government, led by Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, emphasized the importance of enforcing immigration laws to maintain public trust. The Department of Justice reported that 480 individuals were removed from Ireland in early 2025, including 68 deportations. A chartered deportation flight to Georgia in February 2025 marked the beginning of more such operations.

Minister O’Callaghan also noted that a large number of international protection applications are being rejected—80% in January 2025 alone—and highlighted the need for a fair but efficient system, especially as 32,000 people are currently being accommodated while their asylum cases are processed.
Tags: IRELAND

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