Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 July 2022
217. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the work of the humanitarian crisis housing task force, which is chaired by his Department; the consideration that has been given to the development of medium- and long-term accommodation solutions; the name of the relevant stakeholders the task force has engaged with to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35453/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department's contributions to the humanitarian challenges that have arisen as a consequence of the situation in Ukraine have evolved in recent weeks. The task force initially examined options under three headings: rapid delivery volumetric accommodation; use of vacant public and private buildings as multi-occupancy accommodation; and measures to stimulate and accelerate construction of new permanent build homes. As part of its deliberations, the task force engaged with sectoral stakeholders at workshops in April. Workshop participants included, among others, the construction industry and property developers, estate agents, architects, and chartered surveyors.
I have established a new Housing Supply Clearing House to help expedite delivery of housing which has the benefit of planning permission and my Department is leading efforts to refurbish vacant buildings suitable for use as multi-occupancy accommodation by the Ukrainian community in Ireland, in partnership with local authorities. The OPW is now leading on the delivery of volumetric accommodation.
I attend the Cabinet Committee on Accommodation and Supports for Ukrainian Refugees and my Department is in regular contact with the other Departments involved with the response.
