The Irish government announced possible changes to the accommodation system for Ukrainians arriving in the country. The main proposal is to reduce the period of free accommodation in state housing for newcomers from the current 90 to 30 days. According to Minister of Justice Jim O’Callaghan, the resources of the system may be exhausted by the end of November due to the increase in the number of arrivals. Visit Ukraine reports.
New rules for refugee accommodation in Ireland
As explained by the government, at least 50 Ukrainians arrive in Ireland daily. The increase in the flow is linked to changes in Ukrainian legislation allowing men aged 18–22 to leave. Officials emphasize that without correcting the rules, the country will not be able to guarantee housing for everyone in need of shelter.
The minister noted:
«We are very generous to people from Ukraine, but the system needs to be reviewed - otherwise we will not be able to provide housing for newcomers.»
In addition to shortening the residence period, the government is considering additional changes:
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denial of state housing to those who already have temporary protection in another EU country
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gradual phasing out of the compensation program for homeowners who accept Ukrainians (currently they receive 600 euros per month).
Reactions from the Ukrainian community and human rights activists
Nick Henderson, the director of the Irish Refugee Council, stated that the proposed 30-day term is too short and difficult to adapt to a housing shortage:
«This may contradict the EU Directive on Temporary Protection, which requires providing refugees with adequate housing.»
The Ukrainian community in the country is also expressing concerns - people believe that reducing the residence period will create additional pressure on those who have just arrived and do not have sufficient resources.
Since the beginning of the full-scale war, Ireland has provided shelter to tens of thousands of Ukrainians. The country is receiving more and more requests for housing, while the rental market remains one of the most challenging in Europe. The proposed changes are still under discussion, but the government aims to make a decision soon to balance support for Ukrainians and the capacities of the hosting system.
Earlier, we wrote that Ireland plans to increase payments for asylum seekers who voluntarily decide to leave the country.