Summary
This project aims to support Ireland in the implementation of specific areas of its National Implementation Plan (NIP) under the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. Technical support is provided to the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration (DOJ) and relevant national authorities, with a focus on implementing reforms in the areas of Eurodac and interoperability, screening and border procedures, as well as safeguards for vulnerable persons.
Adopted in May 2024, the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum established a common framework for managing migration and asylum across the EU. To support its implementation, the EC developed a Common Implementation Plan (CIP), based on which Ireland designed and submitted its National Implementation Plan (NIP) in March 2025. To support Member States in implementing their NIPs, the EC’s Secretariat-General Reform and Investment Task Force (SG REFORM) offered technical support under the Technical Support Instrument (TSI). Within this framework, ICMPD is supporting Ireland in implementing key elements of Building Block 1 (Eurodac and interoperability), Building Block 2 (screening and border procedures), and Building Block 9 (safeguards for vulnerable persons), in line with national priorities and EU obligations.
Support to be delivered
The project provides targeted support through technical assistance to Ireland in the areas of migration and asylum, specifically to help implement Building Blocks 1, 2, and 9 of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. The main activities include strengthening interoperability systems, aligning screening and border procedures for asylum and return, and applying new practices for alternatives to detention, carried out through national reforms led by Ireland with guidance under this project. This support is delivered to Ireland with the aim of ensuring preparedness for the EU’s new common asylum system. All activities are implemented over a 12-month period in close cooperation with national authorities to ensure targeted support and national ownership.
Results to be achieved
The project will strengthen Ireland`s capacity to implement the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum by delivering:
- Enhanced operational readiness for interoperability;
- Stronger coordination between screening, asylum, and return procedures;
- The introduction of alternatives to detention within border processes.
At the operational level, the project is expected to result in more effective migration management, faster and more efficient procedures, and higher protection standards. In the long-term, it will ensure Ireland’s full preparedness to apply the new EU migration and asylum framework.