Clare’s Minister of State insists the EU Migration Pact is about “sharing data” and not the “handing away of sovereignty”.
The controversial agreement comes into effect across the European Union this Friday, June 12th.
The pact is aimed at harmonising asylum laws in EU member states by securing external borders and expediting the asylum process.
As per the agreement, countries will either agree to take in a certain quota of asylum seekers or make a financial contribution.
In Ireland’s case, the Justice Minister has confirmed a sum of €9.26 million will be paid in 2027.
Contentious elements of the pact include the right of member states to establish return hubs for failed asylum seekers in third countries outside the bloc.
Labour MEP Aodhán Ó Ríordáin has described this policy as “extremely regressive” and likened it to Britain’s failed Rwanda Act.
Shannon Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan believes by opting into the agreement, Ireland has surrendered its ability to regulate its own borders.
The pact also allows national authorities to raid homes and enforce deportation orders.
Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley says it’ll allow countries to cooperate for the benefit of all.
You can listen to the full interview here:
