The public mood on asylum seekers seems to be hardening as a new poll shows nearly two-thirds want a more closed immigration policy.
The Irish Times/Ipsos B&A poll found opinions on immigration becoming tighter as local and European elections edge closer.
Some 63% of those polled said they are in favour of a more closed policy to reduce the number of asylum seekers coming to Ireland.
Meanwhile, 15% said they want a more open border policy while 16% said the current system is “just right”.
The poll also found 46% believe immigration has generally been a “positive” experience for Ireland, while 38% disagree.
This disagreement is a two-point increase from the last poll measuring negative opinions about immigration.
State response to immigration
Some 73% of respondents believe the Government should do more to deport those whose asylum applications have failed.
Also concerning Government performance, 43% of respondents believe it should do more to provide accommodation to asylum seekers, while 48% said they are doing enough.
Ahead of European and local elections, 38% of people were more likely to vote for a candidate who voiced concerns about immigration.
Some 18% of people said concerns about immigration would make them less likely to support the candidate, while 36% said it would make no difference.
Party support
Sinn Fein voters (44%) and those who support Independents (52%) were most likely to respond positively candidates voicing concerns on issue.
Beyond immigration, Sinn Féin saw a further slump in support with 23% of first-preference voters, a five-point decrease.
The opposition party is now tied with Fine Gael, who saw a 4% increase in support to bring it level with Sinn Féin at 23%.
Fianna Fáil received 20% of first preference votes, remaining unchanged from the last poll.
The Green Party saw a one-point drop to 4% of first preference votes, while Labour saw a one-point increase to 5% support.
The Social Democrats also dropped in support to 3%, while Aontú remains unchanged at 1%.
