The Irish government is initiating the gradual phase-out of its program to house Ukrainian refugees in hotels and other commercial facilities. This process is set to commence in August and is projected to span approximately six months. According to Immigration Minister Colm Brophy, the approach involves a phased eviction to prevent the simultaneous mass release of accommodations.
The new regulations will affect approximately 16,000 Ukrainian nationals currently residing in such accommodations. Each individual will receive a three-month notice before being required to vacate. The government explains that the decision is driven by the desire to eliminate the “two-tier housing system,” wherein some individuals have access to long-term housing while others remain in temporary arrangements.
The minister emphasized that the authorities aim to ensure equal access to housing for all individuals, particularly encouraging Ukrainians to seek accommodation on the same terms as local residents. Simultaneously, the government commits to maintaining independent support for the most vulnerable groups unable to secure housing for objective reasons.
Given the challenges in Ireland’s rental market, characterized by limited supply and high prices, officials predict that some Ukrainians will manage to find alternative housing solutions independently. For example, the minister highlighted last year’s experience, when about half of Ukrainians, upon completing hotel contracts, resolved their housing situations independently.
Moreover, Ireland plans to gradually reduce financial payments to local households temporarily hosting Ukrainians from the current 600 Euros per month, with a complete phase-out by March 2027, coinciding with the expiration of temporary protection arrangements in the EU.
Previously, it was reported that the Irish government is considering offering Ukrainians a “generous” aid package to return home as part of ending contracts to accommodate foreign refugees in the country.
