The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has welcomed the resettlement figures for Ireland released today by the Minister for Justice Mr Michael McDowell.
The figures show that Ireland will increase its refugee resettlement quota to 200 persons, from approximately 40 persons, per annum.
Ireland is one of 17 countries worldwide that participates in the scheme operated in conjunction with the UNHCR.
The UNHCR estimates that, of the 9.7 million refugee population, 36,000 are in immediate need of resettlement and welcomed today’s approval by the government to increase the annual quota, citing it as "an example of Ireland’s commitment to refugee protection".
UNHCR’s Representative in Ireland, Ms Pia Prütz Phiri said: "I thank the Minister and Ireland for taking the lead in demonstrating a firm commitment to refugees and offering concrete solutions to their problems. I hope more countries will follow Ireland’s courageous lead".