Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2026
942. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the position regarding any engagement he had with the Irish Refugee Council or any other related organisation in relation to the drafting of the International Protection Bill 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12723/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra943. Deputy Barry Ward asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if he proposes to engage with the Irish Refugee Council or any other related organisation in relation to the progression of the International Protection Bill 2026; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12724/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 942 and 943 together.
It is a central priority for me as Minister for Justice that our immigrations laws are robust and enforced.
The EU Migration and Asylum Pact is a new EU framework to manage migration and asylum for the long-term. The overall objective of the Pact is to provide a fair, sustainable and efficient asylum procedure. This will be done through convergence in asylum practises across the EU.
The Pact is designed to create a more unified approach to managing migration flows across the EU while ensuring respect for human rights. It is a package of new and existing legislative measures which will reform the Common European Asylum System.
Officials in my Department continue to engage with key stakeholders including civil society organisations on the International Protection Bill 2026.
As part of this work several meetings between officials of my Department and civil society organisations, including the Irish Refugee Council, have taken place to allow for opportunities to discuss the Bill with the latest being held on 11 February 2026. Due to a demanding schedule I am not in a position to attend each engagement but have done so when my schedule allowed.
My officials and I have also received and responded to written submissions from numerous organisations in relation to the International Protection Bill 2026.
