Gillian Toole (Meath East, Independent)

Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire Stáit as a bheith anseo inniu. I take on board the opening remarks of the Minister, Deputy O'Callaghan, and his comprehensive explanation of the procedures involved in these three out of the four motions we were expecting today. I understand the need for a common approach to procedures for international protection within the European Union. I will keep my remarks quite simple and, I hope, honest. I believe it is fair to say that everyone wants a fair, efficient and humane asylum policy for those seeking asylum and those prospectively hosting people seeking international protection.

I first raised the issue of inward migration with Meath County Council in September 2023. At that time, I was accused of being far-right and was called all sorts of other names. However, in raising the issue, I was trying to establish the truth of the matter and to differentiate between those with a legitimate need for protection and who were fleeing danger and those who were economic migrants or those attracted by social welfare benefits.

In this instance, I am going to share the very hushed concerns of constituents in my area. In the profound interest of social cohesion, Ireland's ability to cope with inward migration must be assessed across all of the pressurised sectors. I refer to housing, healthcare, elder care, education, special education, transport and community infrastructure. To be blunt, we need to solve Ireland's key areas of inflammation and to plan ahead for future generations in clearly defined timelines. Failure to do so would be ignorant, inconsiderate and reckless abandonment of prospective host communities and those who are in genuine need of international protection. At this point in time, there is a high risk of a fracture in community relations among people who are fearful for their safety. Can Ireland avail of the crisis and force majeure regulation derogations from the EU pact on migration and asylum given the crisis in provision in the areas I have covered? I note that this regulation only comes into effect in July 2026 but time is necessary.

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