EXPLAINER: 'Significant changes' proposed for Irish asylum seeker laws as immigration crisis worsens

Cabinet is expected to sign off on proposals on Tuesday morning that will see an overhaul of Ireland's current asylum laws.

Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan will seek approval to progress legislation that will lead to "significant changes" in the State's international protection system.

From April in 2023 up until April 2024, Ireland saw the arrival of 149,000 immigrants enter the country, the highest figure since 2007.

The proposed changes will see new limits on applications from asylum seekers as well as - 

• A three-month deadline for processing times
• The use of hearings will be restricted
• A new state body will be introduced responsible for appeals
• Officers will be given more power to deport asylum seekers without permission from Justice Minister

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These proposed regulations will mean those who are denied asylum in Ireland will find it a lot harder to contest the decision.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has called the new proposals "the most significant reform in decades".

Once signed off from Cabinet, the new proposals will be subject to a Dáil vote and it's understood Government is hoping to get the legislation passed before the implementation of the EU Migration Pact next year.