Taoiseach 'open-minded' on sending asylum seekers to third countries for processing

Simon Harris said it would be 'absurd' not to look at the overall migration strategy in light of increasing numbers

Simon Harris said any proposal put forward would have to be compliant with human rights laws and be beneficial.

The Taoiseach has said he will remain "open-minded" on the idea of processing asylum applications in third countries.

In its manifesto for next week's elections, the European People's Party (EPP) says it will "conclude agreements with third countries to ensure that asylum seekers can also be granted protection in a civilised and safe way".