Refugee Council slams McDowell crackdown

The Irish Refugee Council has criticised Justice Minister Michael McDowell over plans to crack down on benefits for asylum seekers.

Mr McDowell's proposed reforms are believed to include the withdrawal of welfare payments to asylum seekers who do not present themselves to immigration officials as soon as they enter Ireland.

A similar policy was recently introduced in Britain and the Irish Government is apparently trying to prevent Ireland from being perceived as a "soft touch".

However, James Stapleton, policy officer with the Irish Refugee Council, said Mr McDowell's proposals would impoverish many people.

"We're concerned about it because many asylum seekers - up to 80% - often through fear, apply for asylum when they're in the country. They don't want to approach an immigration officer at the airport," he said.

"Denying welfare support will potentially throw thousands of individuals onto the street in destitution."