Shameful lack of progress on refugee resettlement – O’Brien

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Trade, Darragh O’Brien TD has said that the government’s lack of progress in admitting refugees under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme is shameful.


Commenting on the issue Deputy O’Brien said, “On September 10th 2015 the government pledged to take up to 4,000 refugees through the Irish Refugee Protection Programme, to date only 311 refugees have arrived. Furthermore, I learned today at a meeting of the Refugee and Migrant Coalition that to date Ireland has accepted just one unaccompanied child as part of the the scheme.

“The progress is utterly shameful and underscores the theory that there is a real lack of political will on this issue.

“Later this month, we will co-facilitate the first UN Summit on Refugees and Migrants. In consideration of this important role, Ireland should be showing greater leadership in this regard. The Government cannot encourage other countries to adopt a more humane and coordinated approach when they themselves do not practice what they preach.

“I am urging both the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Justice to redouble their efforts to fulfil their commitment to provide a safe haven for families and children who have been forced to leave their homes due to war and conflict,” concluded Deputy O’Brien.