Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. I recognise that a significant number of Ukrainians are resident across counties Kilkenny and Carlow. I recognise the welcome they have received from communities. Ukrainians are being accommodated in urban and rural areas. People are being accommodated in many different situations all over Ireland. Our primary focus is on meeting the necessary guidelines we have set out for the refurbishment of buildings. The building in question is being considered under one specific stream, that is, the refurbishment stream, which applies to existing buildings that are being refurbished and repurposed for the provision of emergency accommodation solely for Ukrainians. As I say, the scheme being worked through the Department of housing is examining this particular building, but it will only be contracted by my Department for Ukrainian accommodation if it meets the requirements of those guidelines.

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