Minister says 'balance' is key for immigration

THE Justice Minister has defended a proposal to introduce a three-year wait before refugees can apply for family reunification.

- BY GRAINNE NI AODHA

Jim O'Callaghan brought the International Protection Bill 2025 to Cabinet yesterday, which seeks to introduce immigration reforms as part of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum coming into effect from June this year.

He said the bill would require a decision on asylum forms within three months and any appeals must be concluded in a further three months.

Mr O'Callaghan told RTE Radio: “If I'm granted asylum in Ireland today, tomorrow, I can apply to bring my family here.