The Irish government has decided to reduce asylum seeker supports at a meeting of senior ministers in Dublin on Wednesday. Asylum seekers who have jobs will now have to pay a charge towards their State accommodation. Family reunification rules will also be tightened and those applying for citizenship will have to live in Ireland for five years, instead of three.
Ireland has seen higher numbers of people seeking asylum and refuge in recent years than ever before. The plans are being brought forward by Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan and Junior Minister for Migration, Colm Brophy. The plans will be announced in detail at a press conference after the Cabinet meeting ends.