I can confirm to the Deputy that refugees from Afghanistan are being admitted to Ireland with the assistance of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP) of my Department.
Programme refugees normally qualify, for instance, for housing provided by local authorities after spending some time in refugee accommodation centres, or through Community Sponsorship groups. They also have access to intensive English language supports provided by Education and Training Boards. However, due to the nature of arrivals from Afghanistan, the IRPP has sought to respond innovatively, including by seeking support from potential refugee sponsors and civil society organisations to enable it to maximise the number of places available on its programme for Afghan nationals.
It is expected that not all arrivals from Afghanistan will need tailored supports for transition to the wider community and in such cases, supports normally extended to refugee families, such as language classes and orientation will not be required. Refugees will be assisted with access to services such as education and health by the IRPP to accelerate their integration to Irish society.
