World Immigration News

(The Irish Examiner)Paul Hosford: Tougher stance on immigration is not solely about ideology

Release Date: 2026-09-14
Media: The Irish Examiner
Summary: The article argues that Ireland’s tougher immigration policy is driven less by ideology than by public concern and electoral calculations. While more than half of surveyed voters believe immigration benefits the economy, fewer than a quarter think the Government is effectively controlling immigration. Immigration has also become politically linked to broader concerns over housing shortages, public services, and the cost of living, even though experts dispute claims that immigration caused the housing crisis.

In response, the Government has adopted a “fair but firm” approach, including faster asylum processing, stronger deportation enforcement, tighter procedures, and greater obligations for migrants receiving State accommodation. Public support for tougher measures is significant, including strong backing for deporting foreign nationals convicted of crimes.

Electoral pressure is another important factor. Anti-immigration candidates collectively received more than 20% of the vote in the 2026 Dublin Central by-election, raising concerns among mainstream parties that ignoring immigration could push voters toward independents and emerging right-wing movements. Working-class voters appear particularly concerned about competition for scarce resources.

At the same time, residence permits and asylum applications have fallen while deportations of convicted criminals have increased. The article concludes that the Government is not rejecting the economic benefits of immigration. Rather, it is trying to demonstrate that Ireland can remain welcoming while maintaining effective control over immigration—and to reclaim political ownership of the issue before its opponents do.
Tags: Ireland

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