Migration policy document stresses 'cultural norms'
According to media reports, a 17-page Department of Justice strategy for Ireland’s migration policy has been circulated to senior Government figures by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan.
In November the Department of Justice Statement of Strategy included a commitment to delivering “a fair and firm immigration system” to include the 2026 International Protection Bill currently before Seanad Eireann, and the National Migration and Integration Strategy expected to be finalised later this year.
The reports indicate that the document proposes that migration policy should ensure immigration is
- 'Sustainable, orderly and ultimately to the benefit of the people of Ireland”,
- That integration should be founded on 'respect for the social and cultural norms of Ireland', and
- That respect for the rule of law is necessary to maintain social cohesion.
Pressure on public service
Officials note that increased migration in recent years has placed pressure on public services, integration capacity and housing supply.
The document states that an “increase in people coming to Ireland has placed pressures on certain public services, the ability to integrate and increased demand for accommodation within the State”.
Government spending on international protection and temporary protection accommodation is also identified as a concern.
Current annual expenditure of approximately €2 billion in this area is described as “unsustainable”. It is also noted that more than 50% of individuals accessing emergency accommodation are not Irish nationals.
The document also acknowledges that Ireland relies on migrant workers in healthcare and care services and that migrant labour will be necessary if the Government is to meet its housing target of building 300,000 homes by 2030.
However as Ireland may face increasing competition internationally for skilled workers, the document warns that the State’s reliance on migrant labour in certain sectors “leaves us especially vulnerable”.
Inward migration of 125,300 people per year
Latest population data cited in the briefing show inward migration of 125,300 people between April 2024 and April 2025, representing a decrease of 16% on the previous year.
Outward migration over the same period was 65,000 people, resulting in net inward migration of approximately 60,000.
The reports indicate that other measures outlined in the document include:
- Expanding domestic education and training capacity, including additional student and training places, to reduce reliance on international recruitment in sectors such as healthcare,
- Strengthening integration and anti-racism measures, particularly in light of the expiry of the National Action Plan Against Racism next year,
- Pursuing greater cooperation with Britain on migration management, including a potential bilateral agreement to share information on migrants and asylum seekers,
- Considering joint operational measures with Britain aimed at intercepting irregular crossings or facilitating the return of individuals between jurisdictions.