The major row between Ireland and the UK over migration, explained

In The News

A major diplomatic spat has erupted between the Irish and British governments over migration.

It began when Minister for Justice Helen McEntee stated that more than 80 per cent of recent international applicants came to Ireland from the UK across the border with Northern Ireland.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has made political hay with this 80 per cent figure, saying it proves his Rwanda scheme is deterring migrants from remaining in the UK.

The two governments are seemingly a major impasse over how to resolve the issue.

It’s a story that involves political posturing in advance of elections on both sides of the Irish sea, but also also an issue of genuine importance to voters and to those seeking international protection.

Political Editor Pat Leahy and London Correspondent Mark Paul look at the ramping up of tensions, where it leaves British-Irish relations and its impact on the political issue of immigration here.

Presented by Aideen Finnegan. Produced by Declan Conlon.

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