Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 April 2022
317. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Social Protection the plans she has to engage with various sectors and employers to accommodate Ukrainian refugees and create job opportunities for them; if she will provide further information on this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18624/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is committed to providing emergency support to meet the immediate needs of those fleeing the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as well as providing employment advice and guidance.
In addition to a support centre established in Dublin Airport, three city centre hubs to support Ukrainian nationals have been established by the Government, in Dublin, Cork and Limerick. These ‘Ukraine supports centres’, as well as a number of Intreo Centres, are assisting Ukrainians obtaining PPS numbers, in availing of social welfare income supports and receiving referrals to other State services. These are the immediate emergency supports required on arrival in this country.
My Department is also providing assistance to Ukrainians to find employment.
A dedicated section on www.jobsireland.ie, has been developed providing information on employment supports and opportunities for newly arrived Ukrainians.
Intreo employment services are available to assist those arriving from Ukraine as they seek employment in the Irish labour market in Intreo Offices and through jobsireland.ie. Employers across all sectors who wish to support Ukrainians through provision of employment opportunities, should register on www.jobsireland.ie to advertise vacancies. This will enable Intreo Employment Services Officers to match the skills of those seeking employment with available work opportunities. Ukrainians seeking employment can also access the service directly, to upload details of their skills and experience for matching with available employment opportunities.
My Department is also at an advanced stage in planning further employment supports for Ukrainians. These supports will be provided on an outreach basis in, or close to current accommodation hubs, or by inviting Ukrainians into Intreo offices.
I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy.
