Ireland Deports 35 to Nigeria Amidst Prison Capacity Concerns

Ireland: 35 Deportees Sent to Nigeria in Third Flight DUBLIN—A chartered flight carrying 35 individuals, including families with children, departed Dublin Airport for Nigeria on June 5th, 2025. Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan confirmed the news, stating, "This is the third deportation flight in recent months, under a revival of the system." The flight, valued at approximately €330,000, has sparked discussions about cost-effectiveness and the use of prison space. Concerns were raised regarding potential overcrowding in Irish prisons and the housing of deportees in detention centers for up to 56 days before departure. Minister O'Callaghan defended the policy, suggesting that advanced notice of the flight could lead to those scheduled for deportation attempting to evade authorities. The event highlights the ongoing debate in Ireland about immigration and deportation policies. The Minister's comments indicate a commitment to continuing these deportations, though specific timelines for future flights were not provided.