Irish Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan Confirms Mechanism to Encourage Ukrainian Return
Irish Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan confirmed a mechanism to encourage Ukrainians to return home, though no repatriation payment has been announced. The €600 Accommodation Recognition Payment Scheme will end next March, with a potential reduction to €400 in September. A Voluntary Return and Reintegration Programme with the EU is planned for March 2027.
Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan stated there will be a mechanism to encourage Ukrainian people to return home, but he has not yet announced a repatriation payment. This follows a Sunday Times report suggesting payments would be made only upon return to Ukraine. Mr. O'Callaghan noted he lacks full government approval for a payment plan, but is aware the Ukrainian government is eager for its citizens to return.
The minister emphasized the need for various mechanisms to facilitate those wishing to return, acknowledging some may prefer to stay in Ireland. He secured agreement on the issue at the Cabinet Committee on Justice, Migration and Social Affairs. The process will begin in August, phased over six months, with a minimum of three months' notice for those affected. Properties currently used for accommodation will revert to tourism or private rental.
Additionally, the €600 Accommodation Recognition Payment Scheme will wind down over the last four months of this year, ending next March. A reduction to €400 could be introduced in September, impacting approximately 42,000 people in hosted accommodation. The Irish Government will also collaborate with the EU on a Voluntary Return and Reintegration Programme for Ukraine, likely starting in March 2027.