Ireland Considers Payments for Ukrainians to Return

Ireland is considering a major shift in its approach to Ukrainian refugees, including plans to phase out state-provided accommodation and introduce financial incentives for voluntary return.

According to RBC Ukraine, the government intends to terminate accommodation contracts affecting around 16,000 people within the next year.

At the same time, it is preparing a system of financial support aimed at encouraging Ukrainians to return home voluntarily. Discussions are also under way about limiting assistance to those from the most affected regions of Ukraine.

Under the proposals, return payments could reach up to €2,500 per person or €10,000 per family.

Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy said Ireland wants to move away from a model he believes has no equivalent in other EU countries. While the exact timetable has not been finalized, the changes are expected to be implemented within 12 months.

Since the start of the war, Ireland has granted protection to more than 125,000 Ukrainians and has spent hundreds of millions of euros on accommodation support.

(pir)