Ireland Reduces Monthly Support for Ukrainian Refugee Hosts to €600
As of March 25, 2025, the Irish government is considering a significant adjustment to the Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) for hosts providing shelter to Ukrainian refugees fleeing the ongoing conflict. The proposal, set to be presented to the Cabinet, involves reducing the monthly payment from €800 to €600. This change is part of a broader strategy to manage the financial implications of the scheme on the rental market.
Background on the Scheme
Established in 2022, the Accommodation Recognition Payment was designed to acknowledge the generosity of individuals and families who opened their homes to Ukrainians seeking refuge. Since its inception, the scheme has disbursed €272 million to approximately 22,900 hosts. This initiative has been instrumental in supporting the large influx of refugees, with about 39,000 Ukrainians currently being hosted in over 19,000 properties across Ireland.
Proposed Changes
The reduction in payments is not expected to take effect immediately. Instead, it will be phased in over the next three months, allowing hosts sufficient time to adjust to the new financial realities. This approach aims to mitigate any abrupt disruptions to the hosting arrangements.
Extension of the Scheme
Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley intends to extend the revised payment scheme until March 2026. This extension aligns with the timeframe of the EU’s Temporary Protection Directive, ensuring consistency with European policies on refugee support.
Impact on Rental Market
The government believes that reducing the payment is necessary to prevent undue pressure on the rental market. By adjusting the financial incentives, the government hopes to maintain a balanced housing environment while continuing to support those hosting refugees.
Hosts’ Concerns
The proposed changes have sparked anxiety among hosts. Angie Gough, Co-founder and Chief Executive of Helping Irish Hosts, expressed disappointment in how the decision was communicated to those involved. She noted that a significant majority of hosts—73%—rely on the payment to continue providing accommodation. The scale of hosting is substantial, with many Ukrainians living in shared spaces, highlighting the unprecedented nature of this community effort.
EU Migration and Asylum Pact
In parallel, Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan is seeking government approval for the National Implementation Plan for the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. This pact aims to reform Irish asylum laws, creating a more robust and equitable migration system across the EU. The pact is set to come into effect in June 2026 and represents a significant step in managing migration policies within the European Union.
Approval Process
The proposal to extend and revise the Accommodation Recognition Payment scheme will be presented to the Dáil and Seanad for approval this week. This legislative process will ensure that any changes are thoroughly debated and endorsed by the Irish parliament.
In summary, while the reduction in payments may pose challenges for some hosts, the government’s strategy aims to balance support for refugees with the need to maintain a stable housing market. The extension of the scheme and alignment with EU directives underscore Ireland’s commitment to providing refuge while navigating the complexities of managing large-scale migration.