Need to re-evaluate approach to refugee crisis – O’Brien

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade, Darragh O’Brien TD has said that there is a critical need to re-evaluate the EU’s approach to the refugee crisis.

Deputy O'Brien's comments come amid reports that Médicins San Frontiérs (MSF) are no longer accepting funds from the EU due to a stand against 'damaging deterrence policies.'

Commenting on the issue Deputy O’Brien said: “When the EU-Turkey migration deal was announced in March, Fianna Fáil expressed reservations about this deal. At that time we stressed the need for the deal to uphold European principles and ideals to ensure that those seeking asylum receive appropriate treatment.

“Many NGOs have been critical of this deal from the outset, arguing that it was not devised in the best interest of asylum seekers and refugees. Representatives of MSF have said that this deal has set a dangerous precedent for other countries hosting refugees and has placed the very concept of ‘refugee’ and the protection that it affords, in danger. The concerns shared by MSF underscores the need to re-evaluate the EU’s approach to the refugee crisis.

"We therefore cannot ignore the views of NGOs and other organisations that have criticised this deal. Many of these organisations are working on the ground and witness the reality and impact of EU policies on those fleeing war and persecution. Europe must not turn a blind eye to these concerns and must re-evaluate its approach to the refugee crisis.

“In the interest of refugees and for the good of the EU as a whole we must return to placing European values and ideals at the heart of what we do.”
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