Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 February 2024
138. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he intends to reduce the weekly payment to existing beneficiaries of temporary protection at any point in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9712/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to confirm to the Deputy that, at present, there is no intention to reduce the weekly payment to existing Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs).
On 12 December 2023, the Government agreed to amend its support offering for newly arriving BOTPs to more closely align with supports in other EU Member States and to ensure Ireland can continue to meet its obligations under the Temporary Protection Directive (TPD).
Under the revised policy, new arrivals from Ukraine (after a certain date) who seek accommodation from the State will be offered a maximum of 90 days in State-supported accommodation in ‘designated accommodation centres’.
Newly arriving BOTPs who request accommodation, and are assigned to fully serviced ‘designated accommodation centres’ will be entitled to a weekly payment of €38.80 per adult and €29.80 per child, in lieu of social welfare payments, under an administrative scheme that will be administered by DSP. BOTPs will also have access to Child Benefit and Additional Needs Payments where they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.
Those opting to make independent arrangements on arrival (e.g. private rental, “pledge”/Offer a Home) will be entitled to apply for social welfare equivalent to Irish citizens, subject to the same conditions.
These changes will come into effect in the coming weeks following legislative changes (Social Welfare and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2023).
BOTPs who are already in the State will not be subject to the new policy and will retain their existing entitlements, although all accommodation is short-term and is kept under review.
