223. Deputy Robert O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration whether, in light of the proposed new stamp 4 pathway for beneficiaries of temporary protection for Ukrainian nationals, consideration is being given to introducing a waiver, exemption or alternative eligibility criteria for applicants with documented long-term illnesses, disabilities or other significant health conditions who may be unable to satisfy standard employment-related requirements through no fault of their own; the way in which such applicants will be assessed under the proposed scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49968/26]

I have recently received Government approval for measures to support people displaced by the war in Ukraine to transition from Temporary Protection status, in line with the EU Council Recommendation for a coordinated approach to transition people out of Temporary Protection across the European Union.

It should be noted that Ireland intends to continue to support people from Ukraine who are beneficiaries of temporary protection and that this will continue for as long as the Temporary Protection Directive remains in effect.

The proposed Temporary Permission Transition Scheme is intended to provide an alternative immigration permission for those beneficiaries of temporary protection who wish to move to another status and who satisfy the relevant eligibility criteria. It is not intended to replace Temporary Protection and is not a requirement for beneficiaries of temporary protection.

Persons who are unable to satisfy the eligibility criteria for the proposed scheme, including those with documented long-term illnesses, disabilities or other significant health conditions that may prevent them from securing employment, will continue to be entitled to and benefit from Temporary Protection for as long as the Directive remains in effect.

In addition, ongoing supports for people with particular circumstances that may make independent living challenging will continue to be provided. As part of the phased withdrawal of commercial accommodation, individuals who require continued State accommodation will be able to apply and provide evidence of their circumstances.

Recommendation No. 5 of the EU Council Recommendation encourages Member States to facilitate access to alternative legal statuses where appropriate and to ensure that beneficiaries of temporary protection are provided with clear information regarding the rights and conditions attaching to those statuses. The proposed Temporary Permission Transition Scheme is consistent with this objective by providing an additional pathway for eligible beneficiaries who wish to avail of it.

Ireland is not currently implementing a programme of involuntary returns to Ukraine. Subject to developments at EU level and the prevailing security situation, my Department is engaging on the possibility of development of an EU supported voluntary return and reintegration programme for those beneficiaries of temporary protection who may wish to return to Ukraine in the future.

Coordinated work between my Department, the Irish Red Cross, the International Organisation for Migration and other relevant stakeholders will ensure that individuals are supported in making informed decisions regarding their future options in Ireland with as much clarity as possible.