Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 May 2022
574. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if there is a system in place for Ukrainian refugees who sourced accommodation privately before entering the State but for whom this accommodation is only temporary. [22780/22]
View answerSince the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine on February 24, my Department continues to work as part of the whole-of-Government response with a focus on meeting the immediate, temporary accommodation needs of those fleeing the conflict.
Of the approximately 27,000 people who have arrived in Ireland to date having fled the conflict in Ukraine, around 19,000 people have been placed in International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) accommodation.
It is open to anyone who is benefiting from temporary protection in Ireland under the EU Temporary Protection Directive to avail of short-term emergency accommodation through IPAS at any stage of the time that they spend here.
IPAS has contracted over 7500 rooms across hotels, hostels, student accommodation, B&Bs and more, with additional capacity being pursued through guest houses, accommodation pledged by the general public, state-owned or private properties which may be suitable for short-term accommodation, accommodation belonging to voluntary bodies, religious properties, Local Authority facilities and Airbnb. The Millstreet Green Glens Arena opened recently, and can take up to 320 people. IPAS is also investigating other options such as student accommodation for the summer period and holiday homes. Given the number of people arriving, sourcing suitable accommodation continues to be a challenge.
In seeking to address immediate accommodation needs, safety and security are the paramount considerations.
