Plans to accept refugees approved by the Dáil

The Dáil has officially signed off on plans to accept relocated refugees from elsewhere in Europe.

TDs voted unanimously to back the plans agreed by the European Union last month.

Ireland was not automatically bound by the plans, so Dáil approval was needed for the scheme to go ahead.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald praised the Irish people for their generous reaction to the refugee crisis.

“The Irish people have also shown great generosity offering support and assistance of all types I have to say,” The Minister said.

“Accommodation, support to families, to children, clothing and the accommodation there had been thousands of offers of accommodation and we have given the Red Cross the task of drawing these offers of assistance together in a cohesive manner.”