The Irish government is set to introduce significant changes in welfare payments for Ukrainian refugees who arrived in the country in 2022 and 2023.
Under a memorandum set for Cabinet consideration, refugees residing in state-provided accommodation will see their weekly payments slashed from €232 to €38.80.
The proposed memo seeks to standardize benefits for all recipients of temporary protection status, irrespective of their entry time into Ireland.
This move is part of a broader review of entitlements for International Protection Applicants, which aims to ensure consistency and financial sustainability in the migration system.
Taoiseach Simon Harris has underscored the importance of aligning compassion with common sense in Ireland’s migration policies.
He emphasized the need for a consistent approach to social welfare support and accommodation, highlighting the disparity in treatment among Ukrainian refugee families.
With over 100,000 Ukrainians seeking refuge in Ireland since Russia’s invasion in March 2022, policymakers face the challenge of managing the influx of displaced individuals. However, concerns have been raised about current support systems’ financial strain and sustainability.
Despite the large number of arrivals, some Ukrainians have since left the country, as evidenced by the recent Central Statistics Office (CSO) update.
Around 80,000 individuals had activity on their Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) allocation in the previous three months, with just under 18,000 registered as employed.
To address the growing number of arrivals, the Cabinet agreed to reduce welfare rates and limit state accommodation for new Ukrainian refugees to 90 days.
The proposed plan aims to provide a uniform payment rate to all beneficiaries of temporary protection, with a 12-week lead-in time before the changes take effect.
Critics, including Effective Aid Ukraine founder Tom McEnaney, have condemned the decision to cut payments as unfair and lacking compassion. McEnaney highlighted the adverse impact on vulnerable groups, particularly children, and criticized the move as pandering to anti-migrant sentiments.
The proposed welfare cut has reignited debates about Ireland’s stance on supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Critics argue that while Ireland fulfils its shelter obligations, more could be done to ensure the welfare and integration of displaced populations.
In response to mounting concerns, the Cabinet has ordered a review of entitlements for asylum seekers applying for International Protection. This comprehensive evaluation addresses gaps in the current support system and streamlines processes for those seeking refuge in Ireland.
Taoiseach Simon Harris reiterated Ireland’s commitment to upholding international obligations and aligning with EU standards to support refugees and asylum seekers. He stressed the importance of sustainability in the welfare system amid increasing migration numbers.
Other initiatives include increased workplace inspections by Minister for Enterprise Peter Burke to enforce regulations and protect labour rights for refugees and asylum seekers. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee also reviews safe countries to expedite asylum processes within designated timelines.
The proposed changes in welfare payments underscore Ireland’s evolving approach to migration policy and refugee support. As the government grapples with the challenges posed by the Ukrainian refugee crisis, the debate over welfare cuts and integration measures continues to unfold.
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