Department of Justice publishes the Mid-phase review of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme

The review of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) highlights its significant and positive contribution to global humanitarian efforts, with strong commendations from national and international stakeholders. The programme not only reinforces Ireland’s commitment to refugee resettlement but also enhances its international relations and global solidarity. 

However, the review identifies several areas to be improved to sustain and enhance the programme’s effectiveness. The ongoing housing shortage remains a critical barrier, impacting the pace of refugee resettlement. Stakeholders should consider a range of solutions to address this challenge. Refined housing allocations at the local authority level could be considered to mitigate this constraint. Additionally, shifts in public perception and awareness require consideration of sensitive and strategic communication efforts to maintain societal support. 

The first half of this phase showed positive momentum, particularly with the strategic redirection in IRPP3 leading to increased resettlement numbers. Continued refinement of the strategic approach will be necessary to ensure sustainable and effective delivery. The disparity between pledged and actual resettlement figures will warrant further consideration for Phase 4 of the programme. 

The shortfall in meeting agreed targets by the Community Sponsorship Ireland (CSI) stream highlights the need to reassess that delivery model as well as the need to set clear and measurable targets for all implementing partners. Given the gap between targeted resettlements and those delivered, it is clear that the current approach is not effective. 

The IRPP Taskforce serves as a valuable forum, however, there is scope to enhance its role in collaborative problem-solving and cross-departmental engagement. Furthermore, improved data collection on refugee experiences and outcomes would provide critical insights to inform ongoing programme improvements. 

In summary, the IRPP is widely regarded as a successful and strategically important programme. The targeted recommendations contained in this report would serve to enhance the programme, ensuring its continued impact and sustainability.