The Minister has outlined very clearly our intention in relation to this matter. We have always been very clear that the ARP would be a temporary provision. It was introduced in 2022 as a response to a crisis, always with the view that it would be phased out. That remains the case. The planned closure date for the scheme is March of next year. As the Minister indicated, we have engaged in a number of processes with a view to looking at the longer term situation for Ukrainian people who are in our country, who have made a home for themselves here and who we want to continue to encourage to participate in Ireland in every way. The measure before the House will enable that. However, we believe the time for the temporary scheme has come to an end. Therefore, March 2027 remains the date for bringing it to an end. It is important to look at the ARP in the context of what is happening here. We are reducing the payment back to the original rate in order to fulfil the original intention. We thank the people for the generosity they showed in opening their homes to Ukrainians who came to live with us here in Ireland. The latter is part of Ireland's ongoing support for Ukraine as it endures the totally unacceptable war of aggression being waged against it by Russia. We want a situation whereby people will have the ability to share their homes with Ukrainians. Other measures are in place in this regard, including the rent a room scheme. People can continue to have arrangements with Ukrainians if they so wish. What we are bringing to a close is the temporary nature of the ARP. It is important, as the Minister has mentioned, to recognise and thank all of the people who participated in the scheme, and to recognise the work of the Irish Red Cross and the many people who have made the scheme a success. We recognise that there are difficulties with schemes, and that is why this one has been under constant review. It is also why we have taken the decision to see the approval of the Dáil to reduce the payment to €400 and why we put other measures in place. It is important to recognise that Ukrainian people play an incredible role at so many levels within our society. They have come here, endeared themselves to the Irish people and made a great contribution to our country in a few short years. What we want to work towards is a solution which recognises that contribution and which examines how, in the longer term, we can work with the Ukrainian people in our country and with the Government of Ukraine in order to ensure that a pathway exists for them to either continue to live here or, if they so choose, to return home. All of the necessary supports in that regard will be put in place by the Government. Deputies' approval for the motion is important, particularly as it will lead to a more equitable and better outcome for everybody, including Ukrainians in our country.

Sentiment score: 0.27