Ireland’s Shift in Ukraine Housing Support: A Phasing-Out Strategy
Ireland is preparing to significantly alter its approach to accommodating those fleeing the war in Ukraine, moving away from State-contracted accommodation towards a model focused on independent living and returning properties to local communities. Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy, outlined the government’s plans in the Dáil on Thursday, signaling a “reduction and eventual elimination” of the current State accommodation programme.
The Current Landscape: Numbers and Contracts
As of March 13th, over 125,700 people from Ukraine have been granted temporary protection in Ireland. More than 94,300 of these individuals initially requested State-supported accommodation. However, the number currently housed in State-contracted accommodation has fallen to around 19,200 – a substantial decrease from the peak in November 2023. This reduction is being achieved through the termination of contracts with hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs.
Currently, 531 contracts are active, providing capacity for approximately 22,450 beds. The government has been actively reducing this number, ending around 420 contracts in 2024 and a further 195 in 2025. In 2026 alone, 25 contracts have already been terminated, with three additional providers issuing notices to complete their agreements, including in County Clare. Clare has seen a particularly sharp decline in capacity, falling from 2,610 beds across 31 contracts at the end of February 2025, to 1,041 beds across 18 contracts at the end of February 2026.
The Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) Phase-Out
Alongside the reduction in State-contracted accommodation, the government is also phasing out the Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP). This tax-free monthly payment, initially introduced in 2022, provided financial support to those offering accommodation in their homes. The ARP will be extended to March 2027, but will be reduced from €600 to €400 per month as part of a gradual winding-down process. The scheme has accommodated 42,000 people in 23,500 properties, costing €14.5 million monthly.
Focus on Independent Living and Community Integration
Minister Brophy emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting Ukrainians in transitioning to independent living arrangements. This shift aims to free up accommodation for other needs and allow businesses to return to their original operations. The government also intends to return accommodation to local use, benefiting communities across Ireland.
EU Temporary Protection Directive and Future Plans
A motion regarding the extension of the EU Temporary Protection Directive, which provides a framework for supporting Ukrainian refugees, is scheduled to come before the Dáil next week. Although reaffirming Ireland’s commitment to supporting those fleeing the conflict, the long-term goal remains the return of accommodation to local use.
Did you know?
The initial ARP payment was €400 per month, later increased to €600. The current reduction to €400 signals a clear move towards ending the scheme.
FAQ
Q: What is the Temporary Protection Directive?
A: It’s an EU directive offering temporary protection to people fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Q: Will Ukrainians still receive support if State accommodation ends?
A: The government is focused on supporting Ukrainians in finding independent living arrangements.
Q: What is happening with the Accommodation Recognition Payment?
A: The ARP will be reduced from €600 to €400 per month and extended to March 2027 as part of a phasing-out process.
Q: What impact will this have on hotels and B&Bs?
A: The government aims to return these properties to their original use, benefiting local communities.
Pro Tip: Ukrainians seeking accommodation are encouraged to explore independent housing options and utilize available support services.
Stay informed about the latest developments in Ireland’s response to the Ukraine crisis. Read more news on RTÉ.
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