The Hard Shoulder Will the Migration Pact be good for Ireland?
Nov 24, 2025
In this discussion, Barry Ward, a Fine Gael TD and spokesperson on justice, brings insights from the government side, emphasizing the need for alignment with EU migration rules. Meanwhile, Matt Carthy, a Sinn Féin TD, shares concerns about the proposed changes, arguing they overlook pressing issues like processing delays and the complexities of the Common Travel Area. The dialogue highlights differing views on citizenship timelines and family reunification, creating a fascinating clash of perspectives on Ireland's evolving immigration policies.
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Level Playing Field Aim
- Barry Ward argues the measures aim to 'level the playing field' between asylum applicants and other migrants by aligning rights like citizenship timelines.
- He says Ireland must avoid being an outlier among EU states given its unique travel-area pressures with the UK.
Align Family Reunification With EU
- Barry Ward suggests updating family reunification rules to streamline them with EU standards to reduce inconsistencies.
- He implies aligning national rules with the EU migration pact will improve processing and reduce outlier status.
Ireland's Unique Position Matters
- Barry Ward highlights the proposals are timed to anticipate the EU migration pact and to prevent Ireland being an outlier in rules and pressures.
- He stresses Ireland's status outside Schengen and inside the Common Travel Area creates unique migration dynamics to consider.