Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 December 2022
445. Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the timeframe within which Ukrainian refugees who have received rehoming letters from his Department are expected to be rehomed; the specific measures being taken to assist Ukrainian children with additional needs with the transition to and from temporary accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61915/22]
View answerSince the outbreak of the war in Ukraine on 24 February, and the invoking of the temporary protection Directive by the European Union shortly afterwards, my Department has worked intensively as part of the cross-governmental response to the Ukraine crisis.
The operational challenges brought about by responding to the conflict are significant. Our country has never experienced an influx of displaced persons like the one that we have seen over the past months.
My Department is focused on the immediate, short-term accommodation needs of those who have fled here. To date, more than 66,000 people have arrived in Ireland and in excess of 48,000 of those have been referred to this Department seeking accommodation from the State.
The priority is to place people fleeing the war in safe and secure accommodation.
Regarding intra-accommodation moves, accommodation for new arrivals will continually need to be found throughout the Winter period as we expect a further 5,000 people to arrive from Ukraine by year-end. The wider situation in regard to accommodation remains extremely challenging. Ireland is now accommodating in excess of 70,000 people between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants, compared to 7,500 last year.
I am advised by my officials that generally large-scale moves occur due to contracts ending and my Department endeavours to provide as much advance notice as possible. Generally, 48 hours confirmation is issued in advance of moves of Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs). Where possible and in certain circumstances e.g. where a hotel contract may be coming to an end, greater notice periods may be provided. Generally, transfer is by way of coach, or if the group size is small enough by minibus. This has enabled all those in need of transport to avail of the accommodation where they wish to do so. Medical cases are, where at all possible, accommodated close to the medical centres where the BOTPs are receiving treatment. That said, special needs in relation to education, health (including specialised medical transport) etc, are services that fall outside the remit of this Department.
My Department is mindful of the impact that all such moves have on those affected, and will continue to deliver a humanitarian response to the needs of Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) and those seeking International Protection. Where BOTPs can be moved to suitable pledged accommodation in the area this is also facilitated.
