A meat processing company in Co Meath has been searched by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) as part of an operation enforcing immigration and work permits legislation.

GNIB officers, accompanied by the Work Relations Commission (WRC) and Department of Social Protection, searched the offices and warehouse of the processor on Tuesday 11 February 2020.

A Garda spokesperson said: “As a result of enquiries and intelligence, it was established that this company was employing persons in contravention of the immigration and employment permits legislation.”

Arrests

A total of 19 individuals were discovered in breach of either immigration or permit legislation.

Four people were arrested and charged under immigration legislation. They will appear at Swords courts on 19 February and Balbriggan Court on 27 February after securing bail.

A fifth person claimed asylum, while an additional 11 people were encountered with not having any current immigration status in the State and will be subsequently removed in accordance with legislation.

Three non-EU nationals were interviewed due to discrepancies in relation to work permits. The WRC is continuing to investigate to ensure compliance with employment legislation.