Joe Cooney (Clare, Fine Gael)
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1684. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the proposals regarding accommodation for Ukrainian’s living in Ireland under the beneficiary of temporary protection post March-2026; if they will be eligible for housing supports; if his Department has undertaken research into the consequential demand this will place on the current housing delivery targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46890/25]

Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Under the Temporary Protection Directive, beneficiaries of Temporary Protection are entitled to access to minimum standards of protection in Ireland, as in other Member States. This includes access to suitable accommodation or, if necessary, the means to obtain housing.

As matters stand, the situation in Ukraine remains volatile. Currently it is not possible to conclude that safe and durable conditions for return to Ukraine are in place.

On 15 July 2025, the Justice and Home Affairs Council unanimously agreed to extend Temporary Protection by a further year until March 2027. This extension will provide certainty for people benefiting from Temporary Protection who can continue to avail of the protections that the Directive provides during this time.

In addition, the Government has agreed to opt in to an EU proposal for a Recommendation related to a coordinated exit from Temporary Protection. While not binding, this recommendation outlines a series of measures to pave the way for a smooth and coordinated approach to transitioning out of Temporary Protection for displaced people from Ukraine. It also acknowledges the inherently temporary nature of temporary protection and that it therefore must eventually end.

The proposed Recommendation focuses on four sets of measures:

1. Promote and facilitate the transition to other legal statuses before the end of temporary protection;

2. Pave the way for a smooth and sustainable reintegration in Ukraine;

3. Ensure information provision to displaced persons; and

4. Ensure coordination, monitoring and exchange of information among Member States and with the Ukrainian authorities.

The proposed Recommendation remains subject to negotiation and agreement by Member States, meaning any transitionary measures for people with temporary protection status in Ireland are subject to the outcome of future discussions at EU level and further consideration by Government in due course.

The Deputy will appreciate that housing supports and delivery of housing are matters for my colleague the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.