Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 February 2024
439. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the position regarding an application by an accommodation provider (details supplied) to provide accommodation for Ukrainian Refugees at a location approved by the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5222/24]
View answerIreland has responded to the largest displacement of people on the European continent since the Second World War. Since February 2022, as part of the Whole of Government response the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth has worked extensively to support over 104,000 people who have sought temporary protection in Ireland in fleeing the war in Ukraine, over 80% of whom have sought State supported accommodation.
Overseeing provision of accommodation on this scale during this timeframe for all those who require it remains immensely challenging. Due to the urgent need to source accommodation, the Department has contracted in excess of 59,000 beds to accommodate Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) in more than 980 mainly commercial settings including hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, hostels, commercial self-catering accommodation and certain other repurposed settings.
With regard to the offer to which the Deputy refers, I am advised by my officials that they are liaising directly with the accommodation provider and correspondence was sent on 1st of February requesting further documentation. Until the same is received, the offer cannot be progressed by the Offer Management Team.
My Department continues to assess and review all suitable accommodation offers received as to their suitability to meet the needs of BOTPs
