Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the very large numbers of men, women, and children who have tragically lost their lives in dangerous attempts to cross the Mediterranean, and that this number is increasing. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the number of migrant deaths and disappearances in the Mediterranean has grown steadily over the past years: 2,048 in 2021, 2,411 in 2022 and 3,129 by the end of 2023. I am also aware that there are serious concerns that the numbers are much higher than officially reported. This is a deeply distressing situation on a number of levels.

Unmanaged migration represents a huge challenge for the European Union which requires a collective European response. It is essential that we devise a comprehensive approach which can address all the many facets of this situation. Following intensive negotiations late last year, political agreement was reached on 20 December 2023 in relation to the remaining measures of the EU Asylum and Migration Pact. Ireland fully supports the aims of the Pact to create a fair, sustainable and efficient asylum procedure in ordinary times, as well as in times of migratory pressure and crisis situations, which also complies with our international and legal obligations and is based on solidarity and responsibility amongst Member States.

It is also necessary for Ireland and the EU to forge closer partnerships with third countries on issues such as returns and readmission, border management, targeting people smugglers, regional protection solutions and dignified reception facilities, legal migration pathways and addressing the root causes of irregular and forced migration. Again, this must be done with full respect to international legal obligations and pursuing the same holistic approach necessary in order to address effectively this most challenging of issues.