Cathal Crowe (Clare, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

491. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if he will facilitate the reunification of a family currently housed in two temporary protection accommodation centres on either side of the country (details supplied). [27716/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Since the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, my Department continues to work as part of the whole-of-Government response with a focus on providing access to emergency temporary accommodation to those fleeing the conflict who request it, in line with Government policy. This supports Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) to make longer term independent arrangements if they decide to remain in Ireland for the duration of the Temporary Protection Directive.

In relation to this case, I am advised by my officials that an application for family reunification was considered by the Ukrainian Crisis Temporary Accommodation Team (UCTAT), which evaluates applications for exceptional reunification on a case-by-case basis. A refusal notification was issued by the UCTAT team on 17 April.

My officials have also advised me that the spouse of the person to whom the Deputy refers is currently accommodated in a Designated Accommodation Centre under the 90-Day Policy.

From 14 March 2024, the Irish Government has revised its policies in terms of supports provided to those fleeing the war in Ukraine. Under the revised accommodation policy, those granted Temporary Protection who seek accommodation from the State are offered a maximum of 90 days State-supported accommodation in a Designated Accommodation Centre (DAC). They are provided with food, laundry and other services, as well as integration supports to assist them to transition to independence. After 90 days they must source and pay for their own accommodation if they wish to remain in Ireland. Any person availing of State-provided accommodation for this period is also provided with intensive supports to assist them source independent accommodation.

From 14th March 2024, newly-arrived family members are only offered accommodation in the same 90-day Arrival Centres as all other new arrivals.

It is open to people to make their own arrangements to source and pay for accommodation if they wish to reunite with their family. More information is available online at: www.gov.ie/Ukraine. This can include availing of pledged accommodation, subject to availability. 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. Details regarding the Offer a Home scheme can be found under www.offerahome.ie.