TAOISEACH MICHEÁL MARTIN has said Ireland has “no immediate plans” to opt into EU rules that could allow failed asylum seekers to be sent to so-called “return hubs” outside the European Union.

He made the remarks today during a press conference at the European Parliament, where he was speaking to journalists alongside parliament president Roberta Metsola. 

His comments appear to contradict the position of Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan, who said last month that Ireland wants to opt into the rules.

The European Parliament approved the new rules in June. Among the most controversial elements is the creation of return hubs outside the EU, where unsuccessful asylum applicants could be transferred before being returned to their country of origin.

Destinations reportedly under consideration to host the return hubs include Rwanda, Uganda, Uzbekistan, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Ethiopia, Mauritania and Kazakhstan.

The proposals have been strongly criticised by human rights organisations and some political groups, who argue they risk outsourcing asylum responsibilities and human rights protections to third countries.

Speaking today, the Taoiseach said he believes it will be “some distance yet” before a framework governing return hubs will be properly defined. 

“We do welcome the broader agreement on the Asylum Pact, because it brings a greater degree of uniformity across the European Union. From our part, our experience is that the faster we can process [international protection] applications, the better.

“That’s something that we have improved upon in recent years, particularly first stage applications and appeals,” the Taoiseach said. 

He added that he believes this is the “fairest” approach for people seeking asylum.