Cuts to social care and accommodation for new Ukrainian refugees will reduce the number of arrivals in Ireland and not lead to an increase in homelessness, Equality Minister Roderick O’Gorman has said, reports Independent.
Mr O’Gorman was speaking after the government approved plans to introduce a 90-day limit on state residence for new arrivals from Ukraine from early next year and cut weekly benefits from €220 to €38.80.
The Green Party MP said there was no need for an emergency plan if Ukrainians could not leave after 90 days. “It’s my belief that that’s not going to become a major issue,” he said at a news conference in his department today, reports Independent.
“I don’t believe we will be seeing Ukrainians staying after the 90 days because we’ve been making it very clear that our commitment now on the accommodation side is a 90-day commitment and doesn’t go on for longer,” reports Independent.
He added: “I haven’t put in place a contingency plan because I don’t believe the issue will arise,” reports Independent.
As part of the changes that will take effect in January and February, new arrivals from Ukraine will be accommodated in reception centres with food and laundry for 90 days and will be able to benefit from integration support.
Social care will be paid at €38.80 per week for adults and €29.80 for children.
These people will be entitled to medical cards and monthly child benefits.
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