When international protection expires next year, Ukrainians residing in Ireland, according to Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, should apply for asylum.
The Department of Justice’s interim protection directive, which was prolonged by Justice Minister Helen McEntee because of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, expires in March 2025.
“There is no facility to extend it. Therefore there needs to be clarity for Ukrainians who live here. If there is peace in Ukraine by the time the protection ends, then I imagine lots will go home,” reports Independent.
“Others will wish to remain. In those circumstances we have to be clear, the way to get their papers and their status is to get work permits, work visas,” she said RTÉ Radio’s This Week, reports Independent.
The Sinn Féin president stated that if the conflict persists beyond March 2025, Ukrainians will be subject to standard asylum procedures.
“I don’t believe there is a third way. Too often these issues have been left to the last minute and that has been most unhelpful and very stressful for people seeking status. It has caused all sorts of social tensions that I believe with intelligent planning and good communications can be relieved or avoided entirely,” Ms McDonald added, reports Independent.
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