Written answer
Departmental Reviews
156. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if a matter can be reviewed (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28820/26]
Comment on this
My department continues to work as part of the whole-of-Government response with a focus on providing access to emergency temporary accommodation to those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine who request it, in line with Government policy. This supports individuals granted Temporary Protection to make longer term independent arrangements if they decide to remain in Ireland for the duration of the Temporary Protection Directive.
Many people are choosing to move on from State-supported accommodation or are leaving Ireland. State accommodation contracts may also be ending where compliance issues arise, or where the owner chooses to end their contract. This means some people will be moved to other locations if they still require State-contracted accommodation.
Where medical issues are raised, my Department works with the HSE on the basis of a protocol which sets out the priority cases for medical moves. The relocations team in my department will, where possible, relocate medically vulnerable people within the same Community Health Organisation area to keep HSE supports in place and minimise disruption to the person accessing HSE services.
All requests to relocate on medical grounds must be sent to my Department at UkraineTempAccom@justice.ie. If a request is sent to the Department in respect of the case to which the Deputy refers, it will be assessed in conjunction with the HSE in line with the agreed protocol.
The department appreciates that moving location may be disruptive. State-funded accommodation is temporary and subject to change and people fleeing the war are advised of this when requesting access to temporary accommodation.
Individuals granted Temporary Protection are entitled to make their own private arrangements including potentially availing of pledged accommodation if they wish, subject to availability, and can avail of some supports to do so.