Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 17 January 2024
1390. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if a contribution is requested from beneficiaries of temporary protection to date who are in employment and are residing in State-funded accommodation or State-provided accommodation in 2023; and if so, the amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57242/23]
View answerSince the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, my Department continues to work as part of the whole-of-Government response with a focus on providing access to emergency temporary accommodation to those fleeing the conflict who need it. To date, over 100,000 beneficiaries of temporary protection (BOTPs) have arrived in Ireland and approximately 75,000 of those have been referred to this Department seeking accommodation from the State.
In line with the Government decision of 28th October 2022, a Serviced Accommodation Contribution Policy came into operation, on a phased basis.
The policy applies to certain serviced accommodation (for example hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses and hostels) where self-catering options are not available. Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) are required to make a contribution towards payment for meals in order to avail of this State provided accommodation.
The contribution is €10 per adult and €5 per child per day. The purchase of meals in serviced accommodation is compulsory, and a refusal to pay can result in the offer of accommodation being withdrawn. This contribution applies to all BOTPs in serviced accommodation settings, irrespective of whether they are in employment or whether they are only in receipt of social welfare supports.
BOTPs living in the rapid build accommodation units are required to pay an accommodation contribution. The Government is aware that the means of BOTP may vary greatly as some are in employment and others are in receipt of social welfare supports. To ensure a fair charging mechanism and to avoid pushing BOTPs into poverty, a differential contribution scheme has been developed.
This approach involves setting the accommodation contribution at a percentage of income rather than at a set fee. A 16% rate plus a €40 flat rate utility charge is applied. The flat rate utility charge covers electricity (including electric heating), water, internet connection and domestic waste collection. The accommodation contribution is administered by the Approved Housing Body (AHB) appointed to manage the properties. This includes determination, collection, arrears management and reporting.
