Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2022
305. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the supports that are in place to support those who take in Ukrainian refugees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22139/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraGovernment announced on 17th May that a payment of €400 in recognition of those pledging property for people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine will be introduced once appropriate legislation is enacted.
The administration of the Scheme will be carried out by the Department of Social Protection as an appropriate payment agent on behalf of the my Department.
The Recognition Payment Scheme will be a monthly flat rate payment of €400 per property in respect of individual properties (shared or vacant) pledged. There is no link assumed between the payment and actual costs incurred.
The proposed approach has the merit of being relatively simple to explain and administer. I anticipate it will take 2 months to put the legislation in place, and I confirm that payments will be backdated.
The payment will be conditional on a minimum time commitment for hosting (6 months), with payments continuing for hosting arrangements beyond this timeframe. The payment is for those who have pledged accommodation through the Irish Red Cross Portal, and for private pledged arrangements through other means.
