The government has been urged to consider the potential implications of planned reductions to welfare benefits for refugees of the Ukrainian war. This recommendation came from The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which on Friday registered its apprehension over the announced cutbacks’ magnitude. They endorsed a thorough evaluation of these reductions’ probable impact prior to their implementation.
It is projected that about 27,000 Ukrainian war refugees, unemployed and residing in “Government subsidised service accommodation”, for instance hotels and B&Bs, where other services and their meals are provided, will be hit by this decision. Their benefits will be cut from €232 per week to €38.80 per week in just a month and a half.
The news met with disappointment from the Ukrainian embassy, it cautioned that alteration in welfare rights for susceptible refugees might compel them to go back home to Ukraine, just as Russia escalated its offensive.
The Government is contemplating additional constraints on refugees and asylum seekers’ benefits in the upcoming weeks, aiming to lower the influx and alleviate housing stress.
The UNHCR claimed that many of the 27,000 people residing in the government-endorsed accommodation were “at risk including the elderly, women, children and disabled people”.
Revealing that some of those affected may be incapable of working or become dependent on continuous governmental support, the agency stated, “Measures must be taken to shield these susceptible groups from any reductions that may detrimentally affect them.”
The entity also emphasised that the proposed €38.80 allowance matches the amount presently given to adult international protection applicants, an amount that has been static since 2019 despite considerable cost of living rises and inflation.
UNHCR called on the Government to ensure that the proposed allowance aligns with the escalated cost of living and is adequately substantial to provide a dignified life to all seeking protection. The UNHCR further encouraged the Government to dedicate all necessary funds to enhance the self-reliance of refugees from Ukraine; ensuring that individuals who have useful skills and experience have the opportunity to work autonomously where feasible.
The statement also suggested addressing obstacles to employment, which can be achieved by improving access to language courses, labour market supports, affordable childcare and recognising previous qualifications and experience. The continuation of access to welfare benefits such as Rent Supplement and the Working Family Payment would promote self-sufficiency for those in low-wage roles.