Ireland Reshapes Ukrainian Refugee Support Policies: Shortening Accommodation Duration and Facing New Challenges
Ireland’s refugee support system for Ukrainians is undergoing significant changes amid increasing arrivals and internal challenges.
The Minister of Justice is contemplating reducing the period of state accommodation for Ukrainian temporary residents from 90 to 30 days.
This decision is driven by a sharp rise in the number of Ukrainians arriving since 2022, which has exceeded 100,000, with approximately 80,000 currently residing in the country.
Daily arrivals number at least 50 people.
Authorities warn that accommodation facilities could be exhausted by the end of November, complicating efforts for Ukrainians seeking permanent housing.In addition to shortening support periods, there is a consideration to deny housing aid to those who arrived via third countries or who have already been granted temporary protection elsewhere within the EU.
Long-term reforms might also affect the welfare payment system: currently, host families and individuals receive up to 600 euros per month tax-free for housing costs, but this subsidy is under review.Nik Henderson, CEO of the Irish Refugee Council, expressed concern about the potential negative impacts of these changes.
He highlighted that Ukrainian refugees, many under emotional and linguistic stress, face enormous challenges in securing accommodation.
Community representatives also warn of growing housing difficulties and call for sustainable, long-term solutions.
Hope IvanniKova, director of the Ukrainian native school, noted that one month is too short a period to find safe housing and provide support for families with children.
Maria Starukh, an education coordinator, added that community centers and schools actively promote integration, but housing shortages remain a serious problem.The proposed policy shifts raise alarm among Ukrainians already living in Ireland for several years.
Neonila Struk, who moved here two years ago and teaches at a Saturday school, emphasizes that for those under war stress and lacking English skills, finding housing within a month is nearly impossible.
The Irish government plans to discuss these measures with national authorities to balance assistance programs and limited resources.
Recently, media reports surfaced about the tragic death of a Ukrainian teenager following a stabbing incident, illustrating the difficult reality faced by Ukrainian refugees in Ireland.