The Irish Red Cross has voiced concerns over the government’s decision to reduce welfare benefits for approximately 27,000 Ukrainian refugees. This move could exert significant pressure on the existing system for direct provision and asylum, the organisation warns.
Earlier this week, the coalition concurred on a cut in welfare payments for Ukrainian individuals who escaped the war and are currently residing in state-funded accommodation, such as hotels and guest houses. The new weekly stipend will be €38.80, a drastic decrease from the previous €232, putting it on par with the allowances received by applicants for International Protection.
Ukrainians have the right to work, live, and claim welfare benefits across the European Union under the Temporary Protection Directive. This is different to those applying for International Protection, who are required to enter the direct provision system while their claims are being processed.
Niall O’Keeffe, Head of International and Migration at RCI, relayed fears that the reduced welfare rates could make residing in Ireland under the temporary protection directive less enticing. This could compel more Ukrainians to seek asylum, which provides a route to permanent residency following the granting of refugee or similar status.
O’Keeffe conveyed concerns that the pressure to vacate state-provided lodgings might lead these individuals to settle for inappropriate housing arrangements. The urgency of the situation could see refugees settling for any available housing option, potentially resulting in unsuitable tenant-landlord relationships.
The current state of the direct provision and asylum system, which is plagued by extensive waiting periods, bottlenecks, and an inability to offer sufficient accommodation, points to a lack of capacity to cope with further strain. This situation could result in an impending crisis, according to O’Keeffe.
He expressed that the Red Cross echoed the worries brought forward by the Ukrainian community in Ireland and the embassy, in relation to protecting the interests of susceptible individuals. He noted the lack of transparency and public consultation in the reforms’ development.
He voiced uncertainty as to the precise implications of implementing this substantial amendment. Yet, he congratulated the state for its magnificent humanitarian reaction, commenting that it was “fantastic” basic necessities like food, lodging and essential needs were being provided, and that the state deserved recognition for this action.
Contrarily, he remarked, the Red Cross also held reservations that the reduced level of aid could affect the capacity of Ukrainians in state accommodation to accumulate monetary savings. These savings would facilitate their transition into, and interaction within the community.
“If the aim is to integrate individuals into the community and outside of state-provided housing, this allowance was enabling that process to materialise,” he stated.