Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín TD has welcomed reports that An Garda Síochána may move towards recording more detailed information about convictions, stating that greater transparency is necessary to ensure informed and evidence-based policymaking.
The Deputy said “Public debate around crime and migration has intensified in recent years. We welcome any move towards greater transparency in how crime is recorded. Better data can either confirm or dispel concerns, it is in the public interest that it is collected responsibly and used constructively.”
“I have no doubt that if 20% of the population is foreign born that its likely that 20% of the crime in Ireland is likely to be committed by those who are foreign born. Its also the case the those who migrate to Ireland are generally younger than the average age. The largest migration flows for both sexes are consistently among those aged between 25 and 34 years. Therefore, it is likely to be a higher proportion of crimes committed among that cohort.
Improved data will lead to improved debate on the issue. We don’t want to get to a situation where a person of colour is being suspected by some to be a criminal on the basis of their colour. Not collecting information allows this narrative to grow. But it also is the case that certain countries have cultural differences in terms of higher rates of certain crimes and this may also translate to their immigrant populations here in Ireland.
Improved data must now be used to support more effective planning across both policing and immigration. Without accurate information, government cannot plan effectively for policing, housing or integration. Policy developed in the absence of data risks failure.”
“Aontú has consistently called for a stricter immigration system. As an island nation, Ireland is uniquely positioned to operate effective border management, including an Irish sea border, more appropriate checks at ports of entry etc. The public is entitled to have confidence that systems are in place and working effectively.”
“It is also important that immigration policy reflects the capacity of the State. Communities across Ireland are already under pressure in housing, healthcare and policing. Increasing the population by a higher rate that then the number of houses that are being built will place communities and new arrivals under strain. We seek a far stricter immigration system. We believe the numbers coming to Ireland should be reduced. IPAS should be stricter, working visas should be provided to essential workers only and the number of student visas issued should be reduced.”
“Also under European law , EU citizens who are not working after a period of time can be sent home. Under Directive 2004/38/EC EU citizens who are not working and cannot support themselves can be required to leave the host member state. Under EU law, a EU citizen who has committed a crime may also be removed and sent to their home country. For decades these laws, in the main, have not been implemented in Ireland. This needs to change.
Facts not assumption must guide decision-making. Transparency, alongside a strict and controlled immigration system, is essential to maintaining public trust.” Deputy Tóibín concluded
