The Department of Justice is introducing a faster system for processing asylum applications, aiming to cut lengthy wait times under new plans submitted to the European Commission.
Currently, asylum seekers in Ireland may wait up to 29 months for a final decision on their application, a period that includes appeals. This prolonged timeline has drawn criticism for leaving applicants in limbo. To address these delays, the government has committed to significantly reducing processing times under the EU Migration and Asylum Pact.
Under the revised approach, set to take effect next summer, all applications will be assessed within six months. Additionally, cases from applicants originating from designated safe countries will be resolved within just twelve weeks.
The initiative is designed to clear the existing backlog, create a more efficient system, and offer quicker outcomes for those seeking refuge. Officials believe that by expediting the process, those eligible for protection will have a smoother transition, while cases without merit will be resolved more promptly.
The changes are part of a broader European effort to improve asylum procedures across member states.
To facilitate the transition, additional resources and staff will be allocated. Authorities stress that while efficiency is a priority, each application will still be reviewed thoroughly to ensure fairness.
