Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 March 2022
309. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if consideration can be given to providing emergency modular homes for Ukrainian families on donated private land; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16534/22]
View answer337. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans to provide support funding for households that are hosting Ukrainian refugees; if he will provide access to HAP or an equivalent payment to individuals pledging rooms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16432/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 309 and 337 together.
The Government is committed to delivering a humanitarian response to welcome people fleeing the war in Ukraine and seeking protection in Ireland as part of the EU response.
As part of its response, Government is providing accommodation through the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) and is working closely with Local Authorities to provide accommodation for Ukrainian arrivals in a variety of settings including:
- Hotels, guest houses and B&Bs;
- Accommodation pledged by the general public, which is being assessed for suitability;
- State-owned or private properties, which may be suitable for short-term accommodation;
- Religious properties; and
- Local authority community facilities.
Regarding pledged accommodation, the Red Cross is the centre point for offers of assistance for accommodation coming in through local authorities or the public and will liaise directly with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth on same. The Housing Assistance Payment or HAP is not available for accommodation pledged to the Red Cross.
The Government is continuing to develop its humanitarian response to address the accommodation issues arising in the short, medium and long-term.
Government is also working to ensure that local capacity, resources and knowledge are brought to bear on the overall humanitarian response and will work closely with Local Authorities to ensure a well coordinated approach.
