Since the beginning of the Ukrainian crisis my Department has successfully assisted over 83,000 beneficiaries of temporary protection (BOTPs) who have sought State support with accommodation. Over 51,000 BOTPs are currently residing in State supported temporary accommodation in approximately 1,000 locations with private providers under contract with my Department.
Approximately 300 contracts with my Department for the accommodation of BOTPs have been terminated since 2022. However, the information in the format sought by the Deputy as to whether the cancellation was instigated by the service provider or my Department is not available.
My Department has not referred any of these cancelled contracts to An Garda Síochána for investigation.
A Compliance team was set up in my Department in June 2023 to investigate accommodation providers reported to be in breach of their contractual obligations. That team may terminate contracts if necessary, particularly where health and safety concerns arise. However, they seek to work with providers to regularise their contractual relationship with the Department where possible in order to minimise disruption to BOTPs. In addition to compliance investigations, my Department is currently reviewing the State’s BOTP accommodation portfolio to ensure it meets our needs, and that it provides value for money for the tax payer.
Service providers are generally paid on a monthly basis. The standard contract provides for termination by either party with one month's notice. Arrangements are made for the relocation of the BOTPs in the accommodation in question. A final invoice is agreed. I can assure the Deputy that my officials engage with each provider in settling any outstanding amounts in line with contractual commitments.
