Government must not create a cliff edge for Ukrainian families
Government must not create a cliff edge for Ukrainian families - The Labour Party
Labour’s Conor Sheehan TD said reports that Ukrainian refugees may lose access to State housing support when the Temporary Protection Order ends in sixteen months are alarming. Deputy Sheehan said Government must rule out any sudden cliff edge in 2027 and commit to a plan that protects people from homelessness. Labour is calling for urgent clarity on the Minister for Justice’s comments and a commitment that any change in entitlements will be linked to a clear housing pathway.
Deputy Sheehan said:
“If housing entitlements are to change when Temporary Protection ends in sixteen months, then there must be a coordinated housing plan developed in parallel. Anything else risks pushing families into homelessness. Any changes must form part of the Government’s homeless prevention framework and cannot be made in isolation.
“We cannot sleepwalk into a situation where thousands of people are suddenly told their supports are gone. If Ukrainian families are expected to enter the private rental market, then they must have access to Housing Assistance Payment and other supports available to anyone else in housing need. Fairness requires that people have a route into the housing system, not a brick wall.
“Some of the language now coming from Government is deeply concerning. First there was the floated proposal to cut guaranteed accommodation from ninety days to thirty. Then there were public hints about withdrawing entitlements entirely once Temporary Protection expires. These comments create uncertainty, anxiety and confusion for families who have built lives here, whose children attend our schools, and who are contributing to our communities.
“There are already 16,614 people living in emergency accommodation in Ireland, including more than 5,200 children. Local authorities and housing services are stretched to breaking point. If Government presses ahead without a plan, the consequences will be catastrophic. We have seen what happens when policy is made on the hoof.
“Government needs to stop playing communication games on this issue. It creates fear and fuels misinformation. What people need now is clarity, compassion and a proper plan.”