Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Yesterday, I raised the issue of the efforts being made to house Ukrainian refugees and, indeed, others coming here seeking international protection and fleeing persecution abroad. On behalf of the Labour Party, I sought a briefing for Opposition leaders and spokespersons as we are keen to engage constructively with the Government in assisting what has to be a collective national effort to ensure sufficient accommodation is available for those who come here seeking refuge and that we do not see any more people sleeping on the floor in Dublin Airport. What I have heard from communities in my constituency and across the country is real concern that we seem not to have the capacity available, yet we know that capacity is there. Even since yesterday, I have continued to engage with the Government on seeking to put forward proposals for vacant premises that can be used to house those in need of refuge.

I am very concerned to hear that the plan for modular homes is being so delayed. In July, I hosted a briefing in Leinster House with members of the Ukraine civil society forum, and at that point, the members sought a more co-ordinated structure, better management and better communication with local authorities and communities to ensure we would have a short, medium and long-term plan for the housing of refugees. Indeed, that plan had to include modular housing. We now hear that the Office of Public Works, OPW, will install 700 units of modular housing but that these will not come on stream until January and February. It is of concern that there appears to be some opposition to the housing of such sites in different communities. What approach will the Government and the Cabinet committee take now to address this urgent need to ensure accommodation is put in place for refugees, to ensure sufficient homes and units will be available and to ensure we are able to step up?

This morning, I met the Czech delegation. The Czech Government and people have so far housed four times as many refugees from Ukraine per head of population as we have. Members of the delegation expressed great support for Ireland's effort, but we have to be mindful this is a collective effort across Europe.

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