Written answers

Tuesday, 8 November 2022

Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

International Protection

Photo of Niamh SmythNiamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

770. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will review correspondence (details supplied); if he will outline the reason that this property has been assessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54898/22]

Photo of Roderic O'GormanRoderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Regarding the matter in the details supplied, I am advised by my officials that a member of the Ukraine Accommodation Team has been in contact with the individual concerned. An email issued on 17 October requesting further information, with a follow up sent on 1November. I am advised that there has also been a phone call with a member of the team.

In any follow up with your constituent, please advise that the offer cannot progress until the requested information has been sent to the email address as provided – ukraineaccommodation@equality.gov.ie

I trust this information is of assistance .

Photo of Paul KehoePaul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

771. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide guidance for people who have pledged accommodation for Ukrainian refugees, either within their own homes or in second properties but have yet to see any progress on placements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54927/22]

Photo of Roderic O'GormanRoderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I can confirm that to date 4,718 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) have been housed in 1,902 pledged accommodation settings and this figure continues to increase on a weekly basis. Every effort has been made to ensure offers are taken up once they are suitable and necessary vetting procedures are complete. 

Once necessary checks are complete, suitable pledges are placed with NGO implementing partners and Local Authorities for activation, which involves matching them with suitable BOTPs. In some cases, identification of a suitable match may take some time.

I am advised by my officials that every effort is being made to activate the remaining pledges that are available for placement of BOTPs and to ensure that the necessary inspection procedures are completed by Local Authorities. The process of placing people in pledged accommodation does take time, but it is a complex process and needs to be conducted correctly for the safety and security of those fleeing. Vetting is a matter for An Garda Síochana and, where applicable, will be arranged by the Irish Red Cross.  

I have been assured that all persons who pledged accommodation have been contacted. Anyone who pledged accommodation and believes they did not receive any follow up may contact the Irish Red Cross.

The recent Government Decision of 28 October has reiterated Ireland’s firm commitment to assisting those fleeing from Ukraine, including through the launch of a new call for vacant properties, which will be lead by my colleague the Minister for Housing and which I understand will be launched in the coming weeks. 

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.