Michael Collins (Cork South-West, Independent Ireland Party)

I want to address Ireland's position under the EU migration and asylum pact. I have a clear question: can Ireland apply for an exemption? Under the pact, every EU member state must contribute to a solidarity mechanism to assist countries under migratory pressure. This means relocating asylum seekers, paying €20,000 per person not relocated, or providing operational support. There is no blanket opt-out but countries facing significant immigration challenges can apply for partial or full deductions. Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Estonia and Poland are expected to seek such exemptions for 2026. Ireland is not currently on that list although the European Commissioners has flagged us as at risk of migratory pressure.

Let us look at the facts. According to the Central Statistics Office, immigration hit historic highs in the year to April 2024 with 149,200 immigrants, which was the highest number in 17 years. In the year to April 2025, there were 125,300 immigrants, marking the fourth consecutive year above 100,000. In 2024, there was a record 18,560 asylum applications, ranking Ireland third in the EU per capita. The main countries of origin were Nigeria, Jordan, Pakistan, Somalia and Afghanistan. Since March 2022, more than 113,900 Ukrainians have received PPS numbers under temporary protection. About 80,000 still reside in Ireland. These figures clearly show that Ireland is under significant migration pressure, considering the extent of homelessness, the cost-of-living crisis, the waiting lists for basic operations and healthcare, the lack of crèches, the overcrowding in schools and the lack of transport for children attending school, and the lack of accommodation for students. The list goes on. Given this reality, will the Minister confirm whether Ireland intends to apply for an exemption or a deduction under the pact, and if not, why not? This is a critical question for transparency and for ensuring Ireland's interests are properly represented.

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