Syrians allowed to join families in Ireland

Ireland has agreed to accept Syrian family members of refugees already here and to allow them to come and join their loved ones for up to two years.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter announced the extension of the refugee programme for Syrians, saying that the family members would be allowed to work, establish a business or invest in the State.

It is expected that the extension of the humanitarian programme could allow several hundred Syrians to come and temporarily live here for up to two years.

Ireland has already agreed to accept 90 Syrians this year under the UNHCR resettlement programme.

The Department of Justice last night said that Ireland currently has about 300 Syrian refugees living here since fighting began there three years ago.

A refugee here will be entitled to invite up to four of their most vulnerable family members.

Mr Shatter’s department said a key condition of the Syrian humanitarian admission programme was that these persons would not be a burden on the State.

“If these family members cannot find employment the onus will be on the sponsors [the refugee] to support them during their time in Ireland.”

Last night, UNHCR Ireland welcomed the news. “The announcement has the potential to provide solutions for vulnerable Syrians, many of whom have been deeply traumatised and face immense hardship,” said spokeswoman Sophie Magennis.