Ireland is gradually beginning to phase out government commercial housing for Ukrainians with temporary protection. People with disabilities and their families will be able to apply for continued residency, but they are not guaranteed a prior place or retention of all social benefits. This is reported by the Irish portal RTE.ie.
It is not about the automatic eviction of all Ukrainians with disabilities. However, the new conditions create risks for people who cannot independently rent housing or require constant care and medical support.
Government housing for Ukrainians in Ireland will be phased out by March 2027
The Irish government has decided to gradually stop placing Ukrainians in housing rented by the state under commercial contracts. The process is set to start in August 2026 and be completed by March 2027.
Displaced persons must be given at least three months' notice. At the same time, the government plans to reduce the Accommodation Recognition Payment for Irish citizens who host Ukrainians at home from 600 to 400 euros per month starting September 2026. The program is planned to be concluded by March 31, 2027.
In Ireland, it is emphasized that individuals who find it difficult to achieve financial independence can apply for continued residence in government housing. However, this accommodation will most likely be in a different location and format.
Ukrainians with disabilities in Ireland must provide evidence of vulnerability
During the review of applications, the authorities take into account, among other things, the receipt of Disability Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, Domiciliary Care Allowance, Blind Pension, and other benefits. Medical documents, including letters from specialists of the Irish health service HSE, can also be submitted.
The mere fact of receiving disability assistance does not automatically guarantee the right to remain in government housing. At the same time, such payments can serve as proof that a person requires further support.
Human rights organizations warn that the complicated vulnerability assessment procedure may become a problem for families who rely on regular treatment, care, or specialized services. An additional danger is the possible relocation far from doctors, schools, or established support networks.
Social benefits for Ukrainians in government housing may change
Ukrainians placed in special government centers with housing, food, and utilities may lose the right to part of their usual social benefits. Instead, they are provided with a weekly payment for persons with temporary protection—38.80 euros for adults and 29.80 euros for children, subject to income verification.
This provision raises the most concern among public organizations. They point out that a person with a disability or their caregiver may face a difficult choice between living in a government center and retaining individual payments.
The status of temporary protection in the EU is currently valid until March 4, 2027, not until 2028. Ireland is also preparing a transitional residency permit scheme for Ukrainians after the temporary protection expires; however, the detailed conditions of this mechanism have not yet been disclosed.
It should be noted that Ireland will launch a new pathway for some Ukrainians transitioning from temporary protection to a Stamp 4 residency permit.