According to reports by *The Irish Times* on June 19, 2026, two of the 42 South Africans recently deported from Ireland had criminal convictions while residing in the country. Ireland’s Justice Minister, Jim O’Callaghan, said the majority of South Africans living in Ireland are in the country legally, stressing the need to maintain a strong and rules-based immigration system.
He stated that immigration enforcement measures, including deportations, are necessary to ensure compliance with existing laws and to preserve public confidence in the country’s immigration framework. The minister noted that the government remains committed to enforcing immigration regulations while continuing to support lawful migration.
Meanwhile, the Irish government has introduced new visa requirements affecting citizens of several countries.Under the revised policy, nationals of Saint Lucia, Nicaragua and Saint Kitts and Nevis must now obtain visas before travelling to Ireland. The new immigration rules took effect on June 15, 2026, as part of broader efforts by Irish authorities to strengthen border controls and regulate entry into the country.
Source: https://www.thisdaylive.com/
