The judges ruled Rwanda had not provided sufficient evidence to prove it is a safe country, with fears asylum seekers sent there could be forced to go back to the country they had fled.

“This ruling will bring relief to asylum seekers in Northern Ireland who are seeking to rebuild their lives,” said South Belfast MLA Ms Nicholl.

“It is a cruel policy, which has been the source of so much anxiety for the asylum seekers my office has been working with. We work with families who have survived unimaginable atrocities and are simply seeking sanctuary, as is their right. I am delighted this has been ruled unlawful.

"If the UK Government is genuine about addressing issues with migration, they would be better processing claims faster and creating safe routes.”