Almost half of people in Ireland (49%) believe that taking in 4,000 refugees would result in increased level of crime in Ireland, according to a recent poll.

An overwhelming majority (88%) of respondents to the Newstalk/Red C poll feel that Syrian refugees should be subject to Garda vetting before entering the country.

Two-thirds of people (67%) support the Government’s commitment to take 4,000 refugees.

A third of all adults believe that the figure is too many however, whilst one in five believe that we should take more.

When it comes to housing refugees, 65% of Irish people believe that local authority housing would be the most suitable.

Direct Provision would be supported to a lesser degree at 43%, with voluntary host accommodation (38%) and private accommodation such as hostel and hotels (26%) less popular.

Overall, the Irish public remain open to accommodating refugees in their communities, with 60% claiming they are happy to have refugees live close to where they live.

Commenting on the research Richard Colwell, CEO Red C Research said: “It is clear that immigration is an issue that divides voters in Ireland.

“A third of voters believe bringing in 4,000 refugees from Syria is too many.

“Even more are concerned about the possible impact on increased crime, with the majority demanding Garda vetting.

“However, if assured by proper vetting, the majority of Irish citizens retain their legendary welcome for outsiders, showing a clear desire to help at least the 4,000 refugees that has been agreed, and an openness to accommodating them in close proximity to their homes.”

The full Red C/Newstalk Immigration report will be discussed in detail on this evening’s The Right Hook with George Hook from 4.30pm.

He will be joined in studio by Richard Colwell, CEO of Red C, Professor Ray Murphy from the Human Rights Centre in Galway and immigration law expert Dr Ciara Smyth.