Records released under Freedom of Information laws show officials held high-level talks as claims surged, describing the system as close to buckling under the strain. They warned that lengthy delays were driving up costs and prolonging the period applicants were entitled to accommodation and other support.

Between 2022 and 2023, applications rose by 385&, far outpacing processing capacity. A business case noted that investment was needed “at every stage” of the protection process, from handling initial claims to appeals and issuing travel documents. Deportations, which had slowed almost to a halt during the pandemic, were also cited as a factor making Ireland more attractive to asylum seekers.

The documents highlighted the “downstream impacts” of rising applications, including family reunification rights. Around 35-40% of successful applicants apply to bring relatives, with each case seeking permissions for an average of 2.5 family members. Officials warned this would add further pressure to an already overstretched system.

Among the bottlenecks identified was the lack of interview rooms. At Timberlay House in Dublin, building works increased facilities from 15 to 39, while plans are progressing to conduct remote interviews to speed up decisions. Officials also targeted “inadmissible” claims, particularly from those arriving from designated safe countries, and sought improved assessment of the age of unaccompanied minors.

In response, the government allocated an additional €25 million in the last year’s budget to boost staffing and modernise processes. A Department of Justice spokesperson said the priority remains to grant status quickly to those entitled to protection while ensuring faster refusal for those who do not qualify.