The High Court in Belfast has ruled that specific sections of the UK’s Illegal Migration Act are not enforceable in Northern Ireland due to conflicts with human rights laws and post-Brexit agreements with the EU. The ruling, which impedes the Home Office’s deportation plans to Rwanda, is based on potential violations of rights provisions in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.
On May 14, 2024, the High Court in Belfast ruled that certain sections of the UK’s Illegal Migration Act cannot be applied in Northern Ireland. This decision was based on the act’s conflict with human rights laws and post-Brexit agreements with the EU. The ruling specifically impedes the Home Office’s plan to deport migrants to Rwanda, citing a potential violation of the rights provisions contained in the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.
The UK government, under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, expressed disagreement with the court’s interpretation and indicated plans to appeal the decision. Sunak reiterated that the ruling does not alter the government’s intentions to proceed with deportations to Rwanda as planned in July 2024.
The case was brought forward by a solicitor, Sinead Marmion, representing a 16-year-old Iranian asylum seeker, challenging the application of the law in Northern Ireland. This ruling has sparked a significant debate regarding the effectiveness and applicability of the UK’s immigration policies post-Brexit, especially concerning the unique status of Northern Ireland. The decision may lead to Northern Ireland becoming a more attractive destination for asylum seekers looking to avoid deportation under the new rules.
