Sharon Keogan: Calls for sustainable support for Ukrainian refugees

I stand before you to address the financial support and accommodation provided to Ukrainian refugees in our nation. As we extend our hands in solidarity to those fleeing the horrors of war, it is imperative that we do so with a clear, sustainable plan that ensures the welfare of both the refugees and our own citizens. First and foremost, let me express my unwavering support for humanitarian aid. Ireland has a proud tradition of offering refuge to those in need and we must continue to uphold this legacy. However, we must also recognise the challenges that come with huge influxes of new people into our system. Our resources are not infinite and the strain on housing, health care and social services is palpable. The accommodation recognition payment, the AARP, seems a commendable initiative. It acknowledges the generosity of our citizens who open their homes to those in need. But we must ask ourselves, are we truly addressing the root of the problem, or are we just merely attempting to temporarily put a bandaid on a much larger wound? Housing is a fundamental human right and yet we see both refugees and our own citizens living in cramped hotel rooms and makeshift accommodation. This is not the Ireland we aspire to be. We must ensure that both citizens and those genuine refugees who are able to take in have access to decent and safe housing. This also means that we must balance the needs of citizens with those of refugees. As we all are aware, we currently are in the midst of the worst housing crisis in Europe. According to figures given to the Dáil floor yesterday and today, we have 37,000 Ukrainians staying in ARP-funded accommodation. However, statistics from the Ukrainian Civil Society Forum for February 2025 state that a total of nearly 80,000 Ukrainians remain in this country. This means that over 16,000 Ukrainian arrivals, their status is unknown. Ukrainians can enter the private rental market and are eligible to access rent allowance. I have previously warned the government that this would put too much pressure on the rental market for residents. If people are refugees, they should either be accommodated for by the state or they should be placed under the roofs of private citizens who wish to host them. If these same arrivals also wish to work in the country and pay their own way for their needs, then they should be able to do so provided they go through the correct procedures and meet the criteria like everyone else. What should absolutely not be the case is that there should be not set loose on the housing market in crisis, with blank cheques backed up by social welfare systems which they have not paid into. Unlimited generosity is not sustainable in the long term and will ultimately serve neither ourselves nor those in need. I therefore urge the government to review these figures and to make the necessary decisions that would balance the needs of citizens of those refugees, Ukrainian refugees. In addition to the previous speeches, I have highlighted the need for a comprehensive plan to manage the welfare of refugees and asylum seekers. We must address the legislative gaps that exist such as those related to the national child care scheme and the recognition of driving licenses. These gaps create unnecessary barriers for refugees trying to integrate to our society and access essential services. I have also emphasized the importance of educational supports for Ukrainian students in Irish universities. We must ensure that these students have access to the resources they need to succeed, including recognition of the qualifications and support for rural transport. Education is a key factor in keeping and helping refugees rebuild their lives and contribute to our society. In conclusion, let us remember that by our actions today, we will shape the Ireland of tomorrow. We must balance compassion with practicality, ensuring that our support for refugees is sustainable and effective. Together we can build a society that is both welcoming and resilient, where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you.