Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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608. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if there are any Belarussian citizens currently seeking international protection in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37115/25]

Barry Ward (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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609. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of Belarussian citizens granted international protection in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37116/25]

Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 608 and 609 together.

It is a central priority for the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration that our immigration laws are robust and enforced.

It is a priority for my Department to have recommendations made on all international protection applications as soon as possible. This gives status to those who are entitled to international protection to rebuild their lives here, while also ensuring faster decision making in respect of those who do not meet the criteria.

The number of International Protection applications have been rising over the past number of years, reaching 18,500 in 2024. This year, we are beginning to see application numbers noticeably reduce. There have been 43% less applications in the first six months of 2025 compared to the first six months of 2024. We know that patterns in international protection applications vary over time and that is why it is important that the Government’s response adapts accordingly. It is my belief that implementing a firmer and more efficient migration system is a key element in reducing the numbers coming to Ireland to seek international protection, particularly where individuals are unlikely to be entitled to that protection.

There are currently 17 Belarussian applications for International Protection awaiting a final decision.

Since 2020 to 7 July 2025, 29 Belarussians have been granted a permission under the International Protection Act (Refugee Status, Subsidiary Protection or Permission to Remain). The deputy should note that there isn’t necessarily a direct correlation between the year the application was made and the year the decision issued: for example, decisions issued in 2020 might relate to applications made in earlier years.