Practical Measures for Reducing Irregular Migration: Ireland

Abstract

This study investigates practical measures for reducing irregular migration in Ireland. Irish policy towards irregular migration is influenced by the State?s geographical position, at the north-western periphery of Europe, by the Common Travel Area (CTA) shared with the UK the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey and by the fact that the State is an island with one land border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. In addition Ireland and the UK have discretion as to whether the States opt in to EU measures relating to immigration and asylum. During 2010 some 56 per cent of overseas visits to Ireland by non-residents originated from within the CTA. Given Ireland?s peripheral geographical position and recent migration history, it is unlikely that the irregular population in Ireland represents a significant share of the EU total. Reliable statistics on the irregular migrant population in Ireland do not exist and certain problems with data availability make even an estimate difficult. Among the objectives of this EU-wide study is to present practical approaches, mechanisms and measures developed by the Member States to reduce the number of irregular migrants in the EU. This study outlines current policy relevant to irregular migration, and practical examples of measures taken to address irregular migration. Available national data are provided on the profile of irregular migrants in Ireland.