Ireland has introduced more stringent immigration rules to manage rapid population growth and rising asylum applications. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan says the population is growing fast and pressure on housing and public services is increasing.

The new rules require working asylum seekers to pay part of their accommodation costs. Income thresholds for family reunification are also rising. Citizenship rules for refugees will become stricter with longer residency requirements.

Officials may even revoke asylum status in severe security cases. Many are asking if these changes will help or make things harder for newcomers. With most asylum seekers entering from Northern Ireland, the government says it needs stronger control now.