Dáil committee to examine migrant crisis
A Dáil committee will discuss possible solutions to the EU migrant crisis today.
Record numbers of refugees from countries including Libya, Syria and Sudan are trying to reach Europe crossing the Mediterranean.
Over 1,600 people have died since the beginning of this year trying to make the journey.
UN Special Representative Peter Sutherland will address the EU Affairs Committee later, along with the Italian Ambassador to Ireland and the Immigrant Council of Ireland.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executives of Ulster Bank and Bank of Ireland are appearing before the Oireachtas Finance Committee this afternoon.
The separate meetings will explore progress in dealing with mortgage arrears and possible drops in variable mortgage interest rates.
Repossessions and lending to SMEs are also on the agenda.
In social protection, eligibility issues when applying for illness related social protection payments will be discussed by TDs and senators this afternoon.
Representatives from the Department of Social Protection, as well as the Disability Federation and Carers Association will appear before the Social Protection Committee.
The department officials will explain issues surrounding qualifying medical criteria.
Stakeholder groups will outline the problems being encountered by some applicants.
