Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 30 April 2024

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality

EU Regulations and Directive on International Protection, Asylum and Migration: Discussion (Resumed)

Mr. Enda O'Neill:

On the question of resources, it would be helpful to get more analysis on it in terms of on the head count needed per thousand applications. I cannot give the Deputy an analysis but it would be helpful to get a perspective on that from the Department. One thing I would say is that I think there is probably scope for greater efficiencies within the system. Under the pact, for example, a return decision is to issue at the same time as a negative decision on international protection. In Ireland at the moment, if a decision is issued by the IPO and someone is refused, he or she can appeal it to the tribunal. If the tribunal issues a negative decision, he or she can go back to get a permission to remain review by an official. A more streamlined and efficient system could be envisaged as well. It does not always have to be about the numbers being multiplied.