Irish Refugee Council FAQ aims to tackle misinformation
The Irish Refugee Council has published a new FAQ document aimed at tackling misinformation about the asylum process in Ireland.
The 30-page document explains the international protection procedure and process, along with answers to frequently asked questions and queries related to issues like the right to work, accommodation provision, social welfare, and the legal basis for these entitlements.
It also explains the difference in terms like ‘international protection applicant’ and ‘refugee’ and sets out the criteria and thresholds to be recognised as a refugee or to receive a different type of protection or permission to remain in Ireland.
Ciara Ross, policy and advocacy officer at the Irish Refugee Council, said: “An unfortunate development over these past months has been the amplification of misinformation and divisive narratives from those who seek to sow division and unrest in our communities.
“We believe that in Ireland we still have a shared vision of a cohesive, safe society, where people can live with dignity and hope. We believe that all people deserve to aspire to this, regardless of their background, and we are privileged to work with a most inspiring, resilient cohort of individuals.
“We are most concerned about the normalising of harmful stereotyping and the distinct lack of easy to access, understandable information on protection issues, and hope this document is helpful.
“The FAQ provides accurate information on the international protection process, people’s rights and entitlements related to seeking protection, and the legislative duties we have domestically and as a member state of the European Union.”