Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 November 2022
239. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide a list of the proposed locations for the delivery of modular housing by the OPW for accommodation for Ukrainian refugees and those seeking international protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [57092/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has approved the construction of 500 modular accommodation units for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection fleeing the war in Ukraine. These homes will have the potential to house up to 2,000 individuals in family units. The modular units will be constructed on state owned land.
The OPW is leading the development of this accommodation in conjunction with the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY). The objective is to install 500 units by February/March 2023.
All the modular sites will have roads, footpaths, street lighting and community facilities, including a playground and green spaces fully in line with Local Authority planning guidance. The modular homes will be highly energy efficient, durable units with a 60-year lifespan and the development of the sites will be conducted in an environmentally sustainable way to ensure that, post development, the site will enhance the local area.
Deputies and Senators in each constituency where the modular units are planned will receive a full briefing from officials of my Department and the OPW, which will explain the scope and duration of the project and will confirm that these units will be used primarily to provide short-term accommodation to families with children. DCEDIY and the OPW are also engaging directly with Local Authority officials in respect of each site.
The county’s Community Response Forum will be responsible for coordinating the integration of refugees into local areas. My Department is funding additional workers in each local authority to support the integration of new arrivals into the local areas. The Government is also providing funding for community initiatives to support persons displaced by the war in Ukraine.
Regarding the specific matter raised, I can advise the Deputy that the information sought is available to view on the Gov.ie portal website, link attached for information.
www.gov.ie/en/publication/ef882-rapid-build-housing/#where-sites-for-rapid-build-homes-will-be-located.
