Punitive family reunification measures risk undermining refugee integration

In response to Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan’s proposal to restrict the right to family reunification for individuals granted refugee status in Ireland, Doras CEO John Lannon said:

“Forcing people who have fled war and persecution to wait three years before beginning the process of reuniting with their family is not only cruel and inhumane - it serves no useful purpose. It does not address the lack of housing in Ireland, or any of the other challenges faced, and it is also not required by the EU Pact on Asylum and Migration.

What it does is keep families apart, add to their anguish and suffering, and effectively hinder efforts to integrate people into communities, education and the job market. This proposed draconian measure will also put refugee’s families – their spouses and children – at risk. In recognising someone as a refugee, the State has officially declared that they are at risk and in need of protection. Yet it will refuse to afford their family the same protection, despite the dangers they face.  

This is a smokescreen, distracting from the real issues and undermining refugee wellbeing, integration, dignity, and right to family life. Our legislators must reject it.”