Irish Government to Phase Out Commercial Accommodation for Ukrainians, Reduce Host Payments
The Irish government will phase out commercial accommodation for Ukrainians starting August, with exceptions for vulnerable individuals. The €600 monthly host payment scheme will also be reduced and ended by next March. This move aims to transition from temporary solutions to a more sustainable aid model, supporting those who wish to return home.
The Irish government will begin phasing out State-contracted commercial accommodation for Ukrainians from August, affecting residents who arrived before March 2024. Exceptions will be made for highly vulnerable individuals and those with barriers to independence. The process will span six months, with affected individuals receiving a minimum of three months' notice.
Minister of State Colm Brophy stated that aid for Ukrainians is not ending but is being re-evaluated for sustained future provision. The government aims to support Ukrainians who wish to return home and transition away from commercial providers. New arrivals will still receive 30 days of State accommodation, though only 22% of last month's arrivals utilized this option.
Additionally, the €600 Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) Scheme, a tax-free monthly payment to hosts, will be wound down over the last four months of this year and end next March. A reduction to €400 could be introduced in September, impacting approximately 42,000 people in hosted accommodation. Brophy emphasized the scheme was always temporary, aiming for a more permanent and equitable solution.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed the long-standing intention to move away from commercial accommodation. Details regarding the withdrawal and the definition of exempt «vulnerable people»—including women and children, people with disabilities, and the elderly—are being finalized by the Department of Justice.