Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2022
771. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide guidance for people who have pledged accommodation for Ukrainian refugees, either within their own homes or in second properties but have yet to see any progress on placements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54927/22]
View answerI can confirm that to date 4,718 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) have been housed in 1,902 pledged accommodation settings and this figure continues to increase on a weekly basis. Every effort has been made to ensure offers are taken up once they are suitable and necessary vetting procedures are complete.
Once necessary checks are complete, suitable pledges are placed with NGO implementing partners and Local Authorities for activation, which involves matching them with suitable BOTPs. In some cases, identification of a suitable match may take some time.
I am advised by my officials that every effort is being made to activate the remaining pledges that are available for placement of BOTPs and to ensure that the necessary inspection procedures are completed by Local Authorities. The process of placing people in pledged accommodation does take time, but it is a complex process and needs to be conducted correctly for the safety and security of those fleeing. Vetting is a matter for An Garda Síochana and, where applicable, will be arranged by the Irish Red Cross.
I have been assured that all persons who pledged accommodation have been contacted. Anyone who pledged accommodation and believes they did not receive any follow up may contact the Irish Red Cross.
The recent Government Decision of 28 October has reiterated Ireland’s firm commitment to assisting those fleeing from Ukraine, including through the launch of a new call for vacant properties, which will be lead by my colleague the Minister for Housing and which I understand will be launched in the coming weeks.
