Dessie Ellis
Ceist:971. Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Health if he has considered putting in place regional trauma centres for Ukrainian child refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14516/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 22 March 2022
Ceisteanna (971)
Freagraí scríofa
The Government is committed to delivering a humanitarian response to welcome people fleeing the war in Ukraine and seeking protection in Ireland as part of the EU response.
Very significant planning and preparatory work is taking place across Government to provide accommodation and other essential supports to those who have arrived here already, as well as the large numbers of further people expected to arrive. This work is taking place with the support of the Irish Red Cross and NGOs and charities across the country.
The Department of Health is liaising with other Government departments and agencies to provide humanitarian support for Ukrainian refugees. It is a priority for the Department and the HSE to ensure that Ukrainian refugees are provided with appropriate health and social care services.
Refugees from Ukraine will be granted temporary protection status. Under this measure, refugees will be considered ordinarily resident in Ireland for a limited time period and therefore will be entitled to access health care services, in line with other refugee groups and Irish citizens.
A one-stop-shop is being provided in Dublin airport for Ukrainian refugees. This will include application for temporary protection status, PPSN and welfare payment, emergency accommodation and information on other public services. Translation support is also being provided.
The Department of Health and the HSE are working together to coordinate the provision of health care services for Ukrainian refugees granted temporary protection status. They are also liaising with other Government departments and agencies supporting the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in Ireland.
Health care services will include primary health care services for adults, children and older people, ongoing care of priority medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and other chronic illness, services for psychological stress and mental health, and social care services for people with special needs. It is the intention to provide these services in a culturally appropriate manner and to take into account language and other factors.