Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 April 2024
571. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth to outline the plans for use of modular homes built for Ukrainians should there no longer be a requirement for such homes by Ukrainians; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18024/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of the State’s humanitarian response to the Ukrainian crisis, the Government has developed a Rapid Build Housing Programme to provide accommodation for families fleeing the war in Ukraine who request it. The programme aims to provide short-term accommodation for up to 2,800 Ukrainians at several sites across Ireland. The Office of Public Works (OPW) is leading the development of this accommodation in conjunction with my Department.
The rapid build units are being delivered under the European Union (Planning and Development) (Displaced Persons From Ukraine Temporary Protection) Regulations 2022, which limits their use to Ukrainian Beneficaries of Temporary Protection initially. The Government is obliged under EU law to provide access to suitable accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine under the Temporary Protective Directive (European Council Directive 2001/55EC). In the future the units have the potential to be utilised to address other accommodation challenges, including social housing and student accommodation.
