39 people including 5 children deported from Ireland overnight

Ellen O'Donoghue

A total of 39 people, including five children, four females and 30 men, were deported from Ireland overnight.

The Justice Minister confirmed they had been sent back to Georgia after receiving, but failing to comply with, deportation orders.

It was the second deportation flight to leave the country this year.

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan said that the group landed safely in Georgia this morning.

In February, 32 people were deported on a flight to Georgia, which is one of the top countries where people seek asylum in Ireland.

An Garda Síochána confirmed that the children who were removed were all part of family groups.

The individuals were removed on a chartered flight from Dublin Airport, the garda statement also said.

Speaking on the operation, Mr O'Callaghan said that stepping up enforcement and securing Ireland's borders is "a central commitment" of his.

"Swift and fair returns of people whose applications have been refused is the foundation of any modern rules-based immigration process.

“If people wish to move to Ireland, they must do so using the appropriate legal pathways. Removal operations send a clear message that our laws are to be respected and underscores this government’s intention to protect the integrity of our immigration system."

He added that there will be further charter operations to ensure a faster and more efficient removal system.

“Before a deportation order is made, the person is offered assistance to return home voluntarily, this is the preferred option. In addition to enforced removals, my Department is achieving significant increases in the number of people leaving voluntarily, and I am asking those who are given this opportunity to avail of it.”

However, Mr O'Callaghan said it is important to note that many members of the Georgian community are in the State legally.

"They contribute to the economy and the cultural and social fabric of our society.  They are welcome here, and we thank them for their contribution.”

In line with previous operations, the Department of Justice added, the returnees were accompanied on the flight by Garda personnel, medical staff, an interpreter and a human rights observer.