Dozens of South African nationals deported

More than 60 South African nationals, including nine children, have been deported from Ireland.

The Garda National Immigration Bureau carried out the operation on Saturday following deportation orders issued by the Minister for Justice, Jim O’Callaghan.

The operation resulted in the removal of 28 men, 26 women and nine children who were all part of family groups.

They left Dublin on a chartered flight on Saturday and arrived in South Africa on Sunday.

The group were accompanied on the flight by gardai members, medical staff, an interpreter and a human rights observer.

Gardai said 10 of the individuals had been convicted of offences in Ireland.

Mr O’Callaghan said: “Charter flights are now a routine and essential part of immigration enforcement for the state.

“Without effective enforcement measures, our immigration laws would be undermined, and I want to ensure that there is public confidence in the application of our laws in this area.

“If a person does not have a legal permission to be in the state, or has been involved in criminality, they will be removed.”

Minister of State Colm Brophy said: “I would like to acknowledge that the majority of South African nationals resident in Ireland are doing so legally, having entered the state though the various legal pathways available.

“They are welcome and contribute immensely to our economy and society.”