Number denied entry into Ireland rises as deportation orders fall

The number of people refused entry into Ireland has risen sharply while the number of deportations ordered from the country has fallen, The Irish Times reports.

The number of “leave to land” refusals increased from 1,935 in 2013 to 3,450 in 2015, while the number of deportation orders signed has declined from 1,777 in 2013 to 765 in 2015.

However, human rights groups pointed out that only 209 deportation orders were enforced in 2013, while 286 have already been enforced in the first six months of 2016.

The Irish Refugee Council also raised concern about the turning away of 139 people from Afghanistan, 11 from Eritrea, 44 from Iran and 59 from Syria last year.

Stephen Collins, solicitor with the Irish Refugee Council, said: “That means that Ireland refused leave to land to 253 people from refugee-generating countries last year.”

Mr Collins said Ireland could turn away 287 individuals with protection needs this year.

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