Catherine Martin (Dublin Rathdown, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

We, as the people of Ireland and citizens of this world, have a duty to protect those most at risk and to help the most vulnerable. How much more vulnerable can one be than when living in a war-torn country or living in hunger or drought, or living in a country where one's most basic human rights are at risk? Nobody wants to flee their home. People come here seeking peace and shelter. We must be compassionate, show empathy and offer these vulnerable people hope. To provide a safe haven is our duty.

The tourism sector, despite the other substantial challenges it is experiencing, has proven to be a critical part of the State's response to the humanitarian accommodation emergency. The use of tourism accommodation has been necessary in the short term to assist with this humanitarian crisis. The Government is now focused on how to continue the sustained support for those fleeing the war in Ukraine, including those already here, as well as those likely to be further displaced by the ongoing conflict. This means moving to an increased focus on rapid-build housing and a new call for vacant homes led by local authorities.

As the Minister for Social Protection has stated, it is also important to note that to date, 13,250 people from Ukraine have entered the labour force, with many taking up jobs in the hospitality and tourism sector around the country. They have become valued employees and friends and add a new element to the céad míle fáilte which Ireland projects to the world.

I cannot overstate the contribution the sporting community across this island has made to welcoming and integrating those who have sought shelter here. Welcome packs have been developed to support integration at grassroots club football. Athletics Ireland is offering free membership to Ukrainian citizens wishing to join athletics clubs in Ireland and in volleyball, there has been an indefinite waiving of player, coach and referee licence fees for Ukrainians who participate in the sport.

This generosity of spirit runs deep throughout our society and it is the bulwark that will protect against the discord and division sown by those intent on perpetuating hatred. Sadly, there have been negative comments about those seeking refuge here, often online and often intended to mislead. Online disinformation and hate speech are significant barriers to integration in our communities but we are already delivering a suite of legislation and regulation to address this challenge. The Online Safety and Media Regulation Act and the new EU Digital Services Act are critical for holding platforms to account for harmful online content.

We are also providing a creative response to the integration of people from Ukraine through initiatives such as Festival in a Van. Through its shared music sessions, Ukrainian musicians are invited to take to the stage and perform, either as solo artists or in sets with Irish musicians. These sessions have visited 20 counties, working with over 100 musicians in 50 locations. The Arts Council is playing a key role in supporting young Ukrainians arriving in Ireland. The Creative Schools programme has expanded its access cost protocol to allow schools to apply for additional funding to engage translation or other access services needed to meet the needs of migrant children. This enables children to engage with a creative associate or other practitioners, where children participate in creative practices such as art, drama and coding.

The national cultural institutions have also responded directly to the arrivals from Ukraine. The Crawford Art Gallery has facilitated a number of tours in partnership with the Cork Migrant Centre and SECAD Midleton, as well as the participation by young people from Ukraine in animation workshops. There is also a programme run by the Crawford Art Gallery for young co-creators residing in direct provision centres in the region.

Tá aithne ar Éirinn ar fud an domhain mar tír fháilteach, rud a bhfuilimid an-bhródúil as. Ní mór dúinn é sin a thaispeáint trínár ngníomhartha inniu. Cuirfear fáilte roimh theifigh. Cuirfear fáilte roimh chách.

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