Senator Chambers Demands Taoiseach's Diplomatic Action Amid UK Immigration Policy Fallout

Senator Lisa Chambers, Fianna Fáil European Election candidate for the Midlands-Northwest, is calling for urgent action and leadership from the Taoiseach in light of the recent significant increase in immigrants entering Ireland through Northern Ireland. Recent statistics have shown that 80% of recent asylum seeker arrivals to Ireland have travelled from the UK via the land border with Northern Ireland.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated on Saturday that the increase is proof that the UK's Rwanda policy is serving as an effective deterrent. The Rwanda policy, which involves deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda, aims to prevent people from crossing the English Channel to England from Europe in small boats.

Senator Chambers said: ‘The Prime Minister’s comments are disgraceful – he is riding roughshod over the relationship between our two countries. He needs to be reminded that the relationship between Ireland and Britain – a relationship which has existed for a very long time - is extremely important to both the British and Irish people.  

"The Taoiseach has expressed his commitment to maintaining a firm rules-based immigration system that is effectively enforced," said Senator Chambers. "However, the current situation requires more than enforcement. It demands high-level diplomatic engagement to address the complexities brought about by the UK's policies and their unintended consequences on Ireland."

Additionally, a planned meeting between Ireland’s Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and UK Home Secretary James Cleverly, which was expected to address these issues, has been postponed. This morning, Minister McEntee confirmed she would not be attending the British-Irish Intergovernmental conference in London, and is instead meeting senior officials in Dublin.

"The postponement of this crucial meeting and the Minister’s non-attendance at the conference, amid rising tensions highlights the need for immediate and proactive leadership," Senator Chambers emphasised. "The issue of immigration is deeply concerning to the people of Ireland, especially those in border areas, and it is imperative that the Taoiseach takes control of this situation. It has now gone to the stage where it is too much for just one Minister to handle. The Taoiseach must engage directly with the British Prime Minister to ensure that our immigration policies are respected and that the welfare of asylum seekers is prioritised. It is also important that the Taoiseach meet with Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill, as Northern Ireland is being directly impacted by this issue"

Senator Chambers reiterated the importance of this issue among her constituents, noting that it is one of the top concerns she is encountering while canvassing.

ENDS