Ireland Offers €10,000 to Asylum Seekers for Voluntary Return

UPDATE: The Irish government has just announced a significant policy shift aimed at asylum seekers, offering up to €10,000 for those willing to voluntarily withdraw their claims and return to their home countries. This announcement comes from Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan and targets individuals who sought asylum before September 28, 2023.

The initiative, termed the ‘Voluntary Return’ grant, allows eligible asylum seekers to receive increased financial support to cover their return journeys. Under this new program, the compensation has risen to €2,500 per person, with a maximum of €10,000 available for families. This marks a dramatic increase from previous rates, which provided €1,200 per person or €2,000 for families.

According to reports from RTÉ News, the Department of Justice stated that as of September 19, 2023, a total of 1,159 people have already left Ireland through voluntary return this year—a staggering 129% increase compared to the same period last year. The government aims to alleviate pressure on the asylum system with this new approach.

Voluntary return is available to those without legal status in Ireland, including individuals who have withdrawn their applications for international protection or had them denied. Finance Minister Pascal Donohue commented at an SME Business Conference in Carlow today, asserting that enhancing the voluntary return allowance could contribute to a more efficient immigration system.

He emphasized the cost and time associated with deportations, highlighting the importance of creating a fair and efficient migration framework.

This development is critical as it indicates a tougher stance on asylum claims in Ireland. As the country grapples with increasing numbers of asylum seekers, the government’s strategy aims to encourage voluntary departures while simultaneously managing the pressures on its immigration system.

What happens next? Observers will be watching closely as the government implements this program and assesses its impact on the asylum process. The urgency of this situation has the potential to reshape the landscape of immigration policy in Ireland, making it imperative for affected individuals to understand their options moving forward.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.