For immediate release: Sunday 8 May

Press Release: Irish Refugee Council begins its 30^th year with a call for Ireland and EU to support all people seeking asylum in Ireland

The Irish Refugee Council celebrates its 30^th year as a registered charity on Sunday 8 May 2022. 

In a statement marking its anniversary of establishment, the organisation has called on the Irish government and the European Union to ensure that all people seeking protection and refugees are welcomed and protected. The organisation also pays tribute to the many people who have contributed to the organisation over the last 30 years. 

Nick Henderson, CEO of the Irish Refugee Council said

“As we begin our 30^th year, we call on the Irish government and the European Union to support and welcome all people seeking protection. We strongly commend the Irish government’s and Europe’s response to refugees fleeing Ukraine. However, this is in stark contrast to the experience of many people in the mainstream international protection process and the EU’s policies in the Mediterranean and eastern border. We must learn from how supports and services have been quickly put in place to people who have fled Ukraine and apply that to all people seeking protection.”

 Doireann Breathnach, chair of the Irish Refugee Council said:

“The 8 May 2022 is very significant milestone in our history.  We pay tribute to the many staff, Board members and volunteers who have the made the organisation what it is over the last 30 years. In particular we thank deeply people seeking protection who have had the privilege and honour of working with.” 

“The past 30 years have seen a series of war, conflict and violence from the Balkans, to the Middle East, ongoing in many parts of Africa and unfortunately today in Europe. It is a responsibility, legal requirement and moral imperative that we protect and support people fleeing any of these conflicts. I am extremely proud that the IRC has played a leading role in helping refugees from all backgrounds since 1992.”

“Our 30^th year will include a new strategic plan, a celebratory event in September and various publications and moments throughout the year. We are also in the process of expanding our services to support all people seeking protection.”

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Notes for editors:

• The Irish Refugee Council became a registered charity in Ireland on 8 May 1992
• The organisation’s 2021 Impact Report is available here
• More information: irishrefugeecouncil.ie 
• For more information on differing treatment of people seeking protection see press release of 8 April: 
• Press Release: Irish Refugee Council calls for clarity and action on the registration of asylum applications
• For comment: Nick Henderson, CEO, 0858585559