Ireland’s Minister Urges Stricter Migration Policies Ahead of EU Presidency

Ireland’s Minister of State for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne, has emphasized the need for the country to enhance its migration policies to avoid being perceived as an easy entry point for migrants and asylum seekers. Speaking during a visit to Madrid, he stated that it is crucial to ensure that economic migrants do not exploit the international protection system to gain access to Ireland.

Byrne’s comments came as Ireland prepares to assume the presidency of the European Union Council in July 2026. He underscored the importance of an effective government strategy that addresses not only the influx of economic migrants but also the legitimate claims for international protection under the Geneva Convention.

Government Measures and Economic Migration

During his address, Byrne acknowledged that economic migrants are entering Ireland through established channels but highlighted the necessity of a structured approach. “I’m not saying it’s less of a concern, but there is a process to deal with that in terms of where skills are needed in the economy, where workers are needed,” he explained to The Irish Times.

The government is contemplating new initiatives, including potential accommodation charges for international protection applicants who have received work permits. Estimates suggest that up to 8,000 applicants could be subject to these charges, ranging from €15 to €238 per week, depending on their earnings. Byrne praised the efforts of Jim O’Callaghan, the Minister for Justice, describing the approach as “very assertive in trying to make sure that we have a fair migration system.”

Byrne further asserted the necessity of maintaining Ireland’s credibility within the EU, stating, “We definitely want to make sure that we’re not seen as the easy place to get into because that damages our credibility as well within the European Union.”

Irish-Spanish Relations and Shared Priorities

Byrne’s remarks were made during a significant occasion marking the 90th anniversary of Irish-Spanish diplomatic relations. The event, held at the residence of the Irish Ambassador to Spain, Brian Glynn, showcased the strong ties between the two nations through speeches in both Spanish and Irish, accompanied by traditional beverages such as cava and stout.

The Spanish Minister, Fernando Sampedro, spoke about the mutual understanding and shared priorities between Ireland and Spain, emphasizing their cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, and tourism. Notably, there were 2.8 million visits from Irish citizens to Spain last year.

Both countries have also demonstrated a unified stance on international matters, having recently formalized their recognition of a Palestinian state alongside Norway. Byrne acknowledged Spain’s leadership during its presidency of the EU in the latter half of 2023, commending their achievements in advancing the migration package and initiating Ukraine’s EU accession negotiations.

Looking ahead, Ireland’s presidency will focus on migration as a top priority, alongside the enlargement of the EU, including making progress on Ukraine’s accession, concluding negotiations with Montenegro, and significantly advancing Albania’s candidacy.

Byrne concluded by stating that Ireland would take inspiration from Spain’s presidency, aiming for a very active role in addressing migration issues during its own term.