Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 June 2022
64. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the support that are available to persons who have opened their homes to refugees from Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21399/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the outbreak of the war in Ukraine on 24 February, and the invoking of the Temporary Protection Directive by the European Union shortly afterwards, my Department has worked intensively as part of the cross-governmental response to the Ukraine crisis.
My Department is focused on providing short-term accommodation to people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. Some 23,000 people have been referred for accommodation from my Department to date.
Offers of pledged accommodation from the general public are greatly appreciated. They are one means of assisting with the present challenge of finding suitable accommodation for those fleeing Ukraine.
Pledges of accommodation are taking place via the Irish Red Cross Portal as well as privately between parties.
The Government recently agreed to introduce a Recognition Payment Scheme of a monthly flat rate payment of €400 per property in respect of individual properties (shared or vacant) that are pledged.
It is not assumed that the payment reflects actual costs incurred by the host family. It is a financial contribution that recognises the valued contribution of those who host. It will be available to those who have made private arrangements to host people, as well as pledges made through the Irish Red Cross.
Legislative proposals to underpin the scheme payments will be coordinated by the Department of Justice. It is expected to take 2 months to put in place, but payments will be backdated.
The administration of the Scheme will be carried out by the Department of Social Protection as an appropriate payment agent on behalf of my Department.
The payment will be conditional on a minimum time commitment for hosting (6 months), with payments continuing for hosting arrangements beyond this timeframe.
The application process will be based on principles of self-declaration/self-assessment with a requirement to provide PPSN and other details for the Ukrainians being hosted. Penalties will apply in the case of any false declarations made.
In recognition that some of those pledging their homes do not want financial recognition, the need to apply or make a claim for payment provides an important opt-out option for individuals owners who do not wish to access this State support. However, the generosity of these owners merits recognition.
