2. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet Committee on Justice, Migration and Social Affairs will next meet. [18693/25]

Sentiment score: 0.18

I wish to ask about Government policy on accommodation and international protection. On Friday, we saw the Government confirm it would not proceed with opening an IPAS centre in Coolock on the former Crown Paints site. We are all aware there has been a very violent and nasty campaign against the opening of an IPAS centre there. There were local public representatives who bravely stood in support of integration and with a welcome for those who come here fleeing persecution and war, and who seek refuge here. Many in my own constituency have established welcome groups but we have seen two recent instances in Dublin 4 and 8 where a decision has been made not to proceed with opening IPAS centres. The reason, we are told, is a move to State-owned and State-run facilities, and we very much welcome what we hope will be a more co-ordinated and concerted Government approach to accommodation. What we are not getting, however, are any clear answers from the Government about the approach that is going to be taken to accommodation and international protection and about whether backing down may embolden the far right. There is a real concern in some instances that the far right is claiming a win where a centre does not open, and Government needs to address that.

Sentiment score: 0.27

Yes.

Sentiment score: 0.40

13. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Taoiseach to report on his recent discussions with President Zelenskyy. [16742/25]

Sentiment score: 0.00

I thank the Taoiseach for the briefing. First, I wish to express my own deep solidarity and that of the Labour Party with the people of Ukraine as they face what the Taoiseach has rightly described as an existential threat to their country and, indeed, to European democracy as a result of Russia’s brutal war and bombardment. I want to ask about three specific ways that we can show solidarity in a practical sense from Ireland. The first is on pressing further for EU membership for Ukraine, which the Taoiseach said came up at the meeting of EU leaders. The second is on ensuring that we can continue to supply non-lethal supports to Ukraine. The Taoiseach said a new package has been agreed, and that is welcome. The third is supports for those who have come here seeking refuge from the war in Ukraine. It is very positive to see how well we have supported Ukrainian refugees over the last few years. However, I am concerned about the cuts the Government and some in opposition are proposing to accommodation recognition payments and the winding down of organisations such as Helping Irish Hosts which have been supplying really important supports to Ukrainian refugees and families who have come here. The European Parliament on 8 May passed a resolution noting Russia’s genocidal strategy in abducting and deporting Ukrainian children. We need to do more to highlight that appalling and barbaric practice.

Sentiment score: 0.21

29. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet committee that deals with rural affairs and community development will meet. [25316/25]

Sentiment score: 0.00