Two Waterford TDs were among those who voted against a Dáil motion relating to the Government’s implementation of the EU Migration Pact.

The EU Migration Pact introduces new rules for how asylum seekers are processed, screened and accommodated, while also increasing cooperation between EU countries on migration.

John Cummins and Mary Butler voted with the Government during a debate on immigration and asylum policy ahead of the pact’s introduction later this week.

The issue prompted heated exchanges in the Dáil, with opposition parties raising concerns about Ireland’s immigration system and the impact of the new European rules.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald is accusing the Taoiseach of ‘handing’ decisions related to migration over to Brussels.

However, Taoiseach Micheal Martin says Sinn Fein voted in favour of two parts of the pact in 2024.

Ireland previously opted into the pact following a Dáil vote in June 2024.

The Government has argued the measures will help create a more efficient asylum system and improve cooperation between EU countries in responding to migration pressures.

Opposition politicians have criticised aspects of the pact and the Government’s handling of immigration policy, with some calling for further scrutiny of the measures before they come into effect.

Yesterday’s debate focused on the State’s preparations for the new arrangements, which are due to commence on June 12th.

John Cummins and Mary Butler were among TDs who voted against the opposition motion, supporting the Government’s position on the implementation of the pact.

Minister Butler addressed the Dáil saying “In relation to the International Protection Act, which will be commenced on Friday, we should all note, and the Taoiseach spoke extensively to this, that the only change on Friday is that the balance between the State and the asylum applicant will shift in favour of the State. It will become much harder for those claiming asylum who are not entitled to asylum to succeed in their claims.”

The result means the Government’s approach to preparing for the introduction of the EU Migration Pact remains in place as the new system is rolled out.