The programme of the Irish Presidency aims to  ensure the continuity of the implementation of the Stockholm Programme wich provides a roadmap for progress in the areas of freedom, security and justice for 2010-2014.

Regarding Asylum and Migration more particularly, the main objectives are the following:

• The Irish Presidency intends finalising agreement with the European Parliament on the outstanding elements of the common European Asylum System. In relation to legal migration, the Presidency will work closely with the Parliament to secure agreement on the Seasonal Workers Directive and the Intra-Corporate Transfers Directive. It will also commence work on the Students and Researchers Directive.
• Ireland aims to complete discussions on the proposal on the establishment of the Asylum and Migration Fund Regulation. This initative will contribute to the effective management of migration flows in the EU in accordance with the common policies on immigration and asylum.
• Ireland will also prioritise the Regulation establishing the instrument for financial support for external borders and visas and aims to conclude negotiations on this Regulation during the Presidency. The objective of this instrument is to contribute to the operational costs at national and EU level of border control and the visa system.

The Irish Programme takes also into account the Schengen Convention.The Presidency will aim to complete any outstanding work on the legislative package for reform of the Schengen Governance system. It will also continue negotiations to advance agreement on the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the Schengen Convention.

This programme is available in Engish, French and German (see in annex).