The United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland are in a diplomatic spat over illegal migrant returns, with London leveraging the issue against Brussels. Ireland is considering emergency legislation to allow for the return of migrants to the UK. The UK is focused on sending migrants to Rwanda and working with France to stop boat crossings. The situation highlights tensions post-Brexit and France's refusal to cooperate.
Key Points
UK refusing asylum returns from EU via Ireland until France accepts returns
Ireland considering emergency legislation for migrant returns to UK
Post-Brexit surge in migrants crossing English Channel from France
France refusing to cooperate in returning migrants
Pros
UK potentially gaining leverage over Brussels on migrant return issue
Focus on operationalizing Rwanda scheme to address illegal migration
Cons
Tensions between UK and Ireland escalating over the issue
Risk of disrupting Good Friday peace agreement with hard border controls