The Minister for Justice Mr John O’Donoghue has called for public consultation on Ireland’s immigration policy.
Speaking at the launch of a 'Public Consultation Document on Immigration Policy' at Government Buildings today, Mr O’Donoghue said public was being consulted to ensure "that as wide a range as possible of the views and opinions of Irish society are taken into account in the development of immigration policy and the proposed legislation.
"The views submitted will help shape the future direction of immigration policy in Ireland and the content of the proposed legislation," he said.
The Department of Justice is currently involved in the development of a new immigration policy in the context of proposed new immigration legislation.
This involves a cross-departmental group on immigration, a study of international legislation and practice in the field of immigration which is being commissioned by the Department, an internal review of practices in the Immigration and Citizenship Division of the Department and the public consultation process.
The Minister said Ireland has a lot to gain from immigration, and it is a cause of pride that Ireland has become a country of immigration in recent years.