Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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598. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons that have availed of return counselling under the voluntary return programme in 2024 and to date in 2025, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32039/25]

Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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599. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the format in which return counselling is provided, including whether it is available in person, by phone, or by any other means; the measures in place to ensure accessibility for vulnerable individuals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32040/25]

Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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600. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the language or interpretation supports made available to individuals engaging in return counselling; whether these services are guaranteed and free of charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32041/25]

Gary Gannon (Dublin Central, Social Democrats)
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601. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality whether individuals who have been issued deportation orders are eligible to access IOM return counselling; if so, how the service offering differs from that provided prior to a deportation order being signed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32043/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 598, 599, 600 and 601 together.

It is a central priority for me that Ireland’s immigration system is robust and rules based. Returning people who do not have permission to remain in Ireland is undertaken though voluntary returns and deportation. Both types of returns are essential for the system to work effectively and to ensure that there is confidence in the application of our legislation in this area.

It is the preferred option to return people voluntarily, and my Department has a voluntary return programme to assist people to return prior to the issuance of a deportation order. It is important to note that a person can only avail of voluntary return before a deportation order is issued. In 2024, 934 people left Ireland by way of voluntary return. This year 740 people have left Ireland by way of voluntary return up to 13 June 2025, which is an increase of 233% compared to the same period in 2024.

A person who is intending to avail of voluntary return can arrange their return independently or they can be assisted with travel costs, financial aid and administrative support by the Voluntary Return Unit in my Department or through my Department’s partner, the UN’s International Organisation for Migration (IOM).

Up until 2023, the Voluntary Return Programme was administered solely by IOM on behalf of my Department. In 2024 my Department developed its own Voluntary Return Programme, which operates in tandem and in close cooperation with IOM’s services. My Department’s programme provides assistance to people who wish to leave and are not deemed to be in a vulnerable situation. In general terms the IOM considers more vulnerable cases. The voluntary return service comprises of pre-departure counselling, organising travel arrangements and the payment of a reintegration grant in the form of ‘in kind’ assistance.

Informational material regarding voluntary return is provided through a number of mechanisms and is targeted to persons eligible for voluntary return; those who have no legal status in Ireland or who have withdrawn their application for International Protection or have had it refused. The option of Voluntary Return is not offered to those convicted of serious criminality. This material, clearly outlines the differences between the voluntary return process and the deportation process and is available in a range of languages. This information is also available on my Department’s website. An accessible application process for voluntary return has been developed so that people may apply, in writing, online or by telephone.

I can advise the Deputy that leaflets and informational material regarding voluntary return are available in over 13 different languages. Informational material has also been distributed to Local Government Management Agencies, Embassies, health and social service providers, Garda stations and to churches and various faith based groups nationwide. My Department regularly presents on the Voluntary Return Programme to NGOs and community organisations and works closely with the Citizens Information Centre so that information regarding voluntary return is accessible and available to people.

In addition to the above, my Department provides funding to the IOM to conduct outreach activities nationwide to draw awareness to the support services of the Voluntary Return programme. My Department also funds a Freephone Hotline at the IOM which people may use to request in person return counselling.

In respect of the provision of return counselling, I can advise the Deputy that confidential personal return counselling is offered by the IOM to people at any stage of the International Protection or Immigration processes. Return counselling, which is free of charge, is offered in confidence to people and does not impact the outcome of the person’s case. Each person seeking to voluntarily return can avail of in person return counselling.

All people who apply for IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration program receive return counselling. In 2024, 462 people received return counselling from the IOM of which 315 returned with IOM. Up to 31 May 2025, 297 people received return counselling of which 222 elected to voluntary return with IOM. I can advise that return counselling is not available to people subject to deportation orders. As this service is confidential and is available at all stages of the process it is not possible to advise of the number of people who decided to remain in Ireland after receiving return counselling, who then became subject to deportation orders.

Return counselling provided by IOM is typically offered in the following formats:

• Individual Counselling, comprised of one-to-one sessions between IOM staff and the person, where the sessions are tailored to people’s specific situation, needs, and concerns.
• Remote or Virtual Counselling, which is provided via phone and/or video call. This format of counselling ensure access for people who cannot attend in person sessions due to location, mobility or other concerns.
• On-site Counselling at:
  • IOM offices, walk in or via appointment.
  • Via outreach, available at reception centres, hospitals and other locations.

• Freephone 1800 406 406 or in person at IOM 116 Lower Baggot Street Dublin 2
• Website: ireland.iom.int
• Email: iomdublin@iom.int