Marc MacSharry (Sligo-Leitrim, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

In line with our ongoing commitment to support those fleeing war-torn Ukraine, is it the Government's intention to continue to apply a different approach to those seeking international protection under our own legislation and those fleeing Ukraine under the EU's temporary protection directive? Is the Taoiseach aware that while we provide €38.80 per week for those seeking international protection, we are a complete outlier in the EU and neighbouring countries with the provision of €220 per week for those fleeing Ukraine? According to the European Centre for Parliamentary Research and Documentation, this is more than twice that provided by the next highest country, Finland, at €107, and almost 28 times more than the €7.90 per week provided in Belgium. Will the Government acknowledge that such an anomaly amounts to the effective marketing of Ireland as the preferred location for those fleeing war-torn Ukraine? Will the Government adjust our policy to provide an element of balance with other countries, given the inordinate pressures on accommodation in this country?

See this speech in context