I welcome the opportunity to speak on this legislation. I support the overall objectives and the thrust of the Bill, namely providing a fair, sustainable and more efficient system that is consistent with how these laws are operating and will operate across the European Union. I support efforts to provide clearer and shorter timelines in respect of asylum decisions. The Bill will put in place a new framework to manage migration and asylum for the long term and ensure that Ireland's policy aligns with other EU countries. While reform in this area is much needed and overdue and while a more efficient decision-making system is a positive goal, there are some aspects of the legislation which require further scrutiny. In particular, I am concerned about the clause that prevents adults who are beneficiaries of protection from seeking family reunification for a period of three years following the granting of such protection. While I recognise that the current system is under significant strain and requires reform, it is essential that we find a balance between improving efficiency and upholding the rights of applicants and, in line with our own history, that we take a humane approach to this issue. It is an incredibly sensitive issue for many people. Many aspects of this Bill are positive, but we have to look at that three-year limit. There must be a balance between bringing our own laws into line with those of our EU counterparts and recognising that some of the most vulnerable people who would be beneficiaries of protection deserve our support. I see one year as a fair limit for spousal reunification, recognising that having a family member here gives a person the ability to integrate and find work and provides a vital social connection when they are here. Last year, 153 spouses were granted permission to come to Ireland under family reunification arrangements for holders of international protection. To place this in context, more than 123,000 people entered Ireland in the same period, so that is just 0.12% of that total. However, their presence plays a crucial part in helping those who get protection restore a sense of normality and security in their lives when they are here. The Minister stated that he has an open mind in the context of amending the family reunification provisions on Committee Stage. I will be writing to him in that regard. I look forward to further engaging with him as the Bill progresses.

Sentiment score: 0.45