Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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362. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the steps he will take to ensure that a family (details supplied) currently required to reside in two different accommodation centres can be reunited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27879/24]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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As of 14 March 2024, the State has revised its policies in terms of supports provided to those fleeing the war in Ukraine. Under the revised 90 day accommodation policy, new arrivals into Ireland can no longer request to move into a room of friends or family who may already be residing in State supported accommodation in Ireland.

For those already living in State supported accommodation prior to 14 March, there is provision in place to maximise the use of available beds. Where there is a vacant bed available in an occupied room, Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) may apply to my Department to move to the vacant bed should the current occupants of the room agree. BOTPs may contact my Department directly, at ukrainetempaccom@equality.gov.ie, to lodge a request.

It should be noted that it is not always possible to facilitate a move request due to various operational reasons, which may include lack of consent by the current occupants of a room or contractual issues with the provider. In the event that a move is not possible, my officials inform the BOTP directly.

In relation to the case to which the Deputy refers, I understand that my officials have been in direct contact with the persons in question. It has not been possible to facilitate their request. If the BOTPs in question wish to pursue this request further, they should contact my officials through the same address.

BOTPs are entitled to make their own private arrangements for accommodation using supports provided by the Department of Social Protection or by asking their Local Authority or Irish Red Cross for pledged accommodation. Those wishing to avail of pledged accommodation in any given area should contact the Local Authority in that area or the Irish Red Cross pledge process. The Irish Red Cross can be contacted by email at registerofpledges@redcross.ie or by phoning 1800 50 70 70.

BOTPS may also explore private rented accommodation either through their own means or with the assistance of Rent Supplement, if eligible. Rent Supplement is a means-tested payment administered by the Department of Social Protection to help meet the cost of private rented accommodation. Their local Department of Social Protection office may be able to provide further information relating to Rent Supplement. Contact details for the local offices can be found on .