Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 February 2023
311. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he is aware of the problems at a hotel accommodating Ukrainian refugees (details supplied), including the eviction of refugees; the steps he intends taking to address the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7812/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has responded to the largest displacement of people on the European continent since the Second World War. Since February 2022, my Department has worked to accommodate an unprecedented volume of persons seeking refuge from the invasion of Ukraine, coming to over 74,000 people, of which over 54,000 have sought accommodation.
Overseeing provision of accommodation on this scale during this timeframe for all those who require it remains immensely challenging. Due to the urgent need to source accommodation, my Department has contracted in excess of 43,000 beds to accommodate Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) in more than 700 settings including hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, hostels, commercial self-catering accommodation and certain other repurposed settings.
The priority is to place people fleeing the war in safe and secure accommodation.
My Department is aware of the issue referred to by the Deputy. My Department does not comment on individual cases and matters will be addressed in accordance within existing procedures.
