Children; Equality; Disability; Integration and Youth | Payments for hosting Ukrainian Refugees

To ask the Minister for Children; Equality; Disability; Integration and Youth the extent to which the promised payments to individuals providing accommodation to Ukrainian refugees is being provided for, with particular refence to ensuring minimum waiting times; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY
Final steps are underway to roll out the €400 Recognition Payment for people who provide accommodation to those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. The scheme, agreed by Government in May, will take the form of a monthly flat rate payment of €400 per property (shared or vacant, pledged through Irish Red Cross or privately). The Department of Social Protection will administer the payment on behalf of my Department. Applicants will apply to the Department of Social Protection to receive the payment and the payment will be conditional on a minimum time commitment for hosting (6 months), with payments continuing for hosting arrangements beyond this timeframe.