Ireland increased immigration law enforcement more than EU counterparts last year 

The country of origin for most returns from Ireland in 2024 was Georgia with 200 followed by Brazil (160), Jordan (155), South Africa (85), Nigeria (45) and Albania (40). Picture: Kirsty O'Connor/PA

Ireland intensified its enforcement of immigration legislation at the fastest rate of any EU member state last year with the number of non-EU nationals returned to another country after being issued with an order to leave increasing almost fourfold.

Figures published by the European Commission reveal that the rate of increase by Ireland in unsuccessful international protection applicants being returned outside EU borders in 2024 was 265% compared to the EU average of 17%.