The number of asylum seekers who’ve arrived in Ireland in the first four months of this year has increased by 95% when compared to the same period last year. Figures from the Department of Justice show that up until the end of April this year 7,080 people applied for international protection here (3628 asylum seekers arrived here in the first four months of 2023).

Meanwhile there are over 80 tents pitched along the Grand Canal in Dublin where asylum seekers are sleeping rough. Our Chief Reporter Barry Whyte joined us from the area this morning.

Pat was also joined on the show to discuss the situation further by Mannix Flynn, Independent Dublin City Councillor.