Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent)
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387. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if all Ukrainian beneficiaries of temporary protection residing at a location (details supplied) have been served notices that they are to be moved to alternative accommodation by the end of June; what consideration has been given to sourcing alternative accommodation in the local area where many residents have spent two years integrating into local schools, sports clubs, employment and the local community; the reason for the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28352/24]

Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
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My Department is currently seeking to consolidate and rationalise its accommodation portfolio for Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) and is making decisions to end commercial contracts, in accordance with contractual terms and conditions agreed with providers, on the basis of financial, administrative or other accommodation management reasons, including compliance concerns. Compliance concerns are when a provider is not meeting the required, contracted standards of service.

My Department is also reducing the number of contracts to return accommodation to the private sector where possible and to ensure value for money and greater oversight. This will result in people being moved to other locations.

All accommodation contracted by my Department is temporary in nature, and moves are often necessary, and BOTPs are advised of this when requesting emergency accommodation. As this is a temporary support, there is an onus on my Department to ensure that its portfolio of accommodation meets the evolving needs of the State’s response to the Ukraine Crisis.

In relation to the property to which the Deputy refers, my Department served notice of termination to the provider on 11 June. The residents were notified of this termination on 26 June.

The BOTPs who are currently resident at this accommodation will be offered placement at an alternative site in the near future if they still require accommodation. Given the number of moves that will take place over the next few months, it is unlikely that this accommodation will be in the same area. People affected who wish to stay in the area are welcome to make their own arrangements, including through pledged accommodation. Due to the scale of moves planned in the coming months, the only factors that can be considered when allocating follow-on accommodation are HSE assessed medical needs.

Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection 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 .