Ireland is now accommodating approximately 100,000 people between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants. This compares with 8,575 in February 2022. This includes over 73,000 Ukrainian people who have sought accommodation from the State and over 26,000 International Protection applicants currently in IPAS accommodation.
My Department received an offer of accommodation for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) at the Former Boarding School, Inchmore House, Clara, Co. Offaly, R35 YX78.
The property is currently undergoing refurbishment as part of the Emergency Refurbishment (Ukraine) Project overseen by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The property has been offered to provide accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine. The initial capacity will be approximately 88, subject to confirmation, and is expected to be ready in Q1 2024.
Both UCTAT and IPPS are operating in the context of a severe accommodation shortage. As a result, it is necessary for the Government to place Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection and International Protection Applicants in accommodation as and when it becomes available. This helps ensure accommodation is available for all those who seek it. In such circumstances the Government will work 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-co-ordinated and seamless approach.
A Community Engagement Team (CET) has been established to engage directly with elected representatives, relevant Local Authorities, Local Development Companies, and other entities and individuals. The team engages with communities to provide a conduit for information on arrivals and also to address related issues arising in communities. The purpose of the team is to improve the flow of information regarding arrivals into areas and to help equip local communities with the accurate information required to help them understand the current situation and to assist with the welcome and integration process for new arrivals.
The team are also engaging with other stakeholders outside of immediate openings of centres to build relationships and networks with key groups this includes meetings with Community response Fora, Local Development Companies and other NGOs.
