The Minister for Justice has described a new EU agreement on migration as an “historic step”.

MEPs approved a number of texts linked to the Migration and Asylum Pact yesterday (10 April).

The agreement includes measures aimed at speeding up the process of dealing with applications for asylum and improving identification measures.

Minister Helen McEntee said that the pact’s enhanced screening and security measures would reduce irregular secondary movements of asylum seekers.

“This will be particularly impactful for Ireland, while the solidarity and responsibility provisions will assist member states most acutely affected by irregular migration,” she stated.

Financial contributions

Under the pact:

• Asylum claims will be examined more quickly – including at the EU’s borders,
• There will be improved identification at arrival, with mandatory security, vulnerability and health checks for people entering the EU irregularly,
• Member states can choose between taking responsibility for asylum applicants, making financial contributions, or providing operational support to countries under particular pressure,
• The deal aims to provide a better response during crisis situations, and a new voluntary scheme for the resettlement of refugees from third countries.

Minister McEntee said that a range of measures would be put in place to implement the pact – including the repeal of the International Protection Act 2015.

Binding timeframes

There will also be legally binding timeframes for making decisions on international-protection applications and appeals, as well as a greater focus on efficient returns for unsuccessful applicants.

The Department of Justice also said that there would be accelerated processing for those from safe countries, those with no or false documents, and those who have crossed borders illegally.

Those processed under the border procedure will be accommodated in dedicated accommodation at locations at or near the border.