The new International Protection Bill was published on 19th November 2015, with a view to being rushed through the political process and enacted before the Dáil breaks for Christmas on 21st December.

Doras Luimní are concerned that a number of provisions contained within the legislation could potentially limit the rights of asylum seekers and refugees in Ireland and that the legislation requires further debate and consideration before being enacted.

The key issues that we feel require further attention are the right to family reunification; the right to appeal; statelessness; the best interest of the child; the right to work for asylum seekers; and creating a legal framework for reception conditions of protection seeking applicants.

In light of the current refugee crisis, Doras Luimní strongly believe that Ireland must take this opportunity to address the current issues with the protection system, and in particular, bring Ireland in line with international and EU standards such as opting-in to the Common European Asylum System.

See our full press statement here: International Protection Bill
View the International Protection Bill here: IP Bill full draft

If you feel strongly about this issue and would like to help, please consider contacting your local TD or political representative and asking them to advocate for stronger protection of asylum seekers and refugees. Find your local TD listed here: www.whoismytd.com 

 

Time is very limited so please consider phoning or emailing your local TD today!