Aubrey McCarthy (Independent)

I rise to express concern at the Government’s recent decision to increase the voluntary return allowance for asylum seekers. While I realise the pressures that are on the Government in this regard, the financial allowance for asylum seekers to be processed is approximately €122,000 per applicant. That seems a staggering figure. You have to tread very carefully when incentivising vulnerable individuals to abandon their claims for asylum protection. The incentive will increase to €2,500 per person and €10,000 per family. Even though it might appear pragmatic, the question must be asked as to whether costs are being prioritised over compassion.I deal with many of the individuals. We have a homeless cafe and lately a lot of people have been coming in who are seeking asylum. They are fleeing very real danger. They are fleeing war and a lot of them have been maimed. The Government is offering financial incentives for them to leave Ireland and go back to the very place they are fleeing but I do not know how money can solve that issue.

I welcome the safeguards that we have for vulnerable individuals. I also welcome the exclusion of those convicted of serious criminality. We have to ensure, however, that no one is pressured, explicitly or implicitly, into returning to unsafe conditions. We must remember that Ireland is a nation built on empathy and justice. I urge the Minister to monitor this scheme and the new recommendations closely. We must ensure transparency and uphold the dignity of every person who seeks refuge on our shores. We must balance the fiscal responsibility with moral leadership.