Ukrainian refugees “deserve stability” says Ó Muiri

Clarity is needed on whether the Ukrainian Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) will be amended or simply extended by the end of the month, a Fine Gael TD has said.

Dublin Bay North TD Naoise Ó Muirí has expressed concern that the scheme is due to expire on March 31st but his colleagues in government have not been communicating clearly enough on the future of the scheme.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said that clarity on the future of ARP will be coming “soon” but Ó Muirí said, “certainty must come without delay.”

“Families across Ireland have opened their homes in an extraordinary act of humanity and social solidarity. They deserve the reassurance that their generosity is not being taken for granted.”

At present, the scheme entitles host families to  €800 a month, but it is understood the government are looking to cut this further in accordance with the government pivoting to the right on immigration.

In recent weeks, the government’s treatment of Ukrainian refugees in Dublin 1 have been criticised with opposition TDs claiming that 200 Ukrainian refugees were being moved without adequate notice.”

Ó Muirí echoed their concerns, saying “there are so many questions that still need to be answered about ARP. Is the scheme being reconfigured or streamlined in any way? What is the plan for 2026 and beyond?”

“Families need to be able to plan for their future, even in the short term.”

The recent shift in the Russia-Ukraine war, which has seen the Russian army make advances through Ukraine and the actions of Donald Trump indicating a shift in American support for the war, led to the Dublin Bay North TD saying “many Ukrainians who have come to these shores are facing deep uncertainty; these people deserve some stability for the months ahead.

“These families – both hosts and guests – need clarity now, not at the last minute.”