The leader of the Rural Independent Group of TDs, Mattie McGrath is calling on the government to conduct a referendum on Ireland’s immigration policy on March 8th, 2024. The TD says there is a need for public input into how the country manages international protection applicants, particularly in “the context of housing shortages and strained public services.”
Two referendums are to be held on March 8th this year relating to the references in the Constitution to a woman’s role in the home and the provision of care – Deputy McGrath says the immigration issue is more pressing and relevant, and it’s time for the Government “to stop lecturing the public and allow every voter to express their views.”
There is little possibility of the issue being put to a referendum this year.
The EU agreed the terms of the New Pact on Migration and Asylum in late December which is to be implemented from early 2024 subject to approval by the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers.
Deputy McGrath describes a policy to accept unlimited numbers of asylum seekers during a chronic housing shortage as “reckless and irresponsible.” The Rural Independents believe an annual cap on the number of migrants seeking asylum allowed to enter Ireland is required.
