The Irish government has raised strong objections against the UK’s recent Rwanda deportation law, aimed at curbing illegal immigration. Under the controversial legislation, refugees entering the UK illegally could be sent to Rwanda for asylum processing. However, Ireland asserts that this has triggered an influx of asylum seekers crossing the Northern Ireland border into the Irish Republic. Prime Minister Simon Harris and Deputy Prime Minister Meehol Martin have urged UK authorities to address the issue.
The law has faced legal challenges in the UK, with concerns over Rwanda’s safety and the handling of refugee applications. Despite objections, the bill was passed, leading to plans for refugee flights to Rwanda. Ireland’s Justice Minister Helen McEntee highlights an 80% surge in asylum seekers arriving from Northern Ireland. Amid tensions, Ireland considers a law to return refugees to the UK, though this may spark diplomatic tensions. Talks between Irish and UK officials have been postponed, indicating the complex nature of the issue.