Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
142. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he will reconsider introducing a three-year wait for family reunification for those with refugee status in the new migration legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6546/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI want to begin by saying and making clear that as Minister I know and understand the huge importance that migration plays for Ireland. Migration benefits our economy, our public services, our infrastructure and has contributed to making contemporary Ireland a dynamic and successful society.
For those who are granted international protection, I appreciate the importance of reuniting with their family. However, the Government is required to balance the interest of the Irish public with that of those seeking family reunification, recognising that our resources are not unlimited and that those seeking reunification should be able to support any persons joining them.
Last week I published the new International Protection Bill 2026, which will give effect to the Pact measures and will replace the International Protection Act 2015.
In this new Bill, provisions for family reunification will be provided for. The measures will more closely align with certain other EU Member States.
The purpose of revising this policy is not to deter people from integrating or making applications, but to ensure that people who are sponsoring an application have had sufficient time to establish stability in the State and demonstrate the capacity to provide for their family, without the reliance on public services or state funds.
This approach reflects the Government's objective of promoting effective integration outcomes for both sponsors and their family members. In that context, my Department invests in a range of measures related to integration, including community led initiatives, to support the inclusion of migrants and their families in Irish society.
