Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2015
378. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the proposals she is willing to accept with regard to the creation of a European Union quota system for immigrants arriving into the European Union; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24874/15]
View answerAt the Justice and Home Affairs Council last week in Luxembourg I outlined the government's position on the two issues to which the term "quota" might be applied, namely resettlement and relocation. On resettlement I emphasised that Ireland has already responded generously and advised EU colleagues of the details of Ireland’s response to the ongoing crisis in the Mediterranean, including the initiative to resettle 520 refugees in 2015-16 – almost double the number allocated under the Commission’s scheme. In relation to the Commission’s proposal on relocation, I made it clear that, while we and a number of other Member States have issues with mandatory distribution, we want to participate in finding solutions to this crisis and to supporting Member States under pressure. That is why we are engaging fully in the discussions on the proposed emergency relocation mechanism. Any Irish participation in this relocation scheme would have to be approved by the Government and the Oireachtas. Only when we have a clear idea of the precise implications of these proposals, for the individuals involved and for Ireland, can we make a final decision on the part we can play.
