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South African Asylum Seekers in Ireland Face Deportation

Published

12 hours ago

September 2, 2025

Source : {https://www.theflagshop.co.uk/ireland-irish-flag.html}

South African Asylum Seekers in Ireland Face Deportation

Several South African families living in Ireland are facing deportation after their asylum applications were rejected by the Irish government.

The government has rejected thousands of applications in an effort to limit international protection for those deemed not entitled. Asylum seekers in Ireland are entitled to housing, daily allowances, education, and healthcare during processing.

Families speak out

Two families, the Rademeyrs and the Pinards, arrived in 2022 and 2023. Some members applied for work permits while awaiting decisions, resulting in the suspension of their benefits. Others continue to live in state-provided housing.

Yolinda Pinard said: “I won’t go back to South Africa. They assaulted me. I was nearly raped and that was my last straw. There is too much going on at home, too much crime.”
Arend Pinard, her son, said being called a “burden” was unfair: “I never wanted to live off the government.”
Angelique Rademeyer expressed concern for her family: “I feel there is no future for us, especially for white people in South Africa.”

All families have been served deportation orders but are appealing the decisions. In the meantime, they must report regularly to local police stations.

Irish government stance

Under a new coalition government, additional police officers are deployed to enforce deportations. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan said:

“Too many people are coming to Ireland seeking international protection who are not entitled to it.”
He emphasized that legal migration pathways must be followed. If asylum applications are refused, individuals are expected to leave the country.

Reports indicate over 80% of asylum applications are rejected at first instance. Anti-immigration protests have recently escalated, echoing tensions reminiscent of Ireland’s Troubles.