President Connolly to meet with Council of State

The Council of State is to meet today to consider the constitutionality of the International Protection Bill 2026.

The advisory body has been convened by President Catherine Connolly who said the proposed legislation contains issues.

The International Protection Bill will usher in a huge overhaul of laws around asylum seekers and it brings Ireland into line with the EU's migration and asylum pact.

The proposed law passed through both Houses of the Oireachtas last week.

But, at the behest of President Connolly, the Council of State will meet this afternoon to consider its constitutionality.

Following that meeting, the President will decide whether to refer the bill to the Supreme Court for its consideration.

The Council of State is an advisory body to the President which includes all current and former taoisigh, tánaistí and chief justices, as well as other ex officio members and the President's seven appointees .