The Irish government has deported 32 people in a chartered flight to Georgia, marking the first large-scale removal operation of its kind in almost two decades.
The individuals had been issued Deportation Orders, meaning they had exhausted all legal avenues to remain in Ireland. The flight, which left Dublin Airport last night for Tbilisi, reflects a tougher stance on enforcing immigration rules.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan said the move was necessary to ensure that genuine asylum seekers receive the protection they need.
“Ireland has a fair and robust international protection system, but those who do not qualify must leave. This sends a clear message that our immigration laws will be upheld,” he stated.
The government has faced growing pressure to streamline the asylum process amid increasing numbers of applicants. While deportations usually occur via commercial flights, the use of a chartered flight suggests a more assertive approach in handling large-scale removals.
Officials have not confirmed whether further chartered deportation flights are planned, but the Justice Minister has indicated that Ireland must balance compassion with enforcement in managing migration.
