I support this motion and will speak in favour of it. Four years on from Russia's brutal and illegal invasion of Ukraine, Ireland's solidarity with the Ukrainian people remains as strong as ever. The Government rightly played a central role in mobilising Ireland's response to the largest movement of refugees in Europe since the Second World War. While this presented challenges, it has largely been successful. People have been accommodated and integrated into communities right across Ireland. We all hope for a conclusion to this brutal conflict, which has claimed so many lives. A lasting peace settlement and Ukraine's speedy accession to the EU are essential. The motion before us extends the ARP until March 2027, in line with the EU temporary protection directive. Since the scheme launched in July 2022, almost €438 million has been paid to approximately 28,000 hosts across the country, supporting 64,000 beneficiaries. As of this month, more than 23,500 active claims remain in payment, covering 42,000 people at a cost of around €14.5 million per month. Of course, this is a very significant cost to the taxpayer. It reflects the commitment of Irish support for the Ukrainian people who call Ireland their home. Behind every claim is a family who opened their home and a Ukrainian family finding their feet in a new community. In my own constituency of Dún Laoghaire and across every county in Ireland, hosts have shown extraordinary generosity. This motion honours that contribution. I note that, alongside the extension, the monthly payment is to be reduced from €600 to €400, returning it to the rate originally set when the scheme was initially launched. I understand the rationale for this. There are legitimate concerns about the ARP's interaction with the private rental market. It is right that we manage this carefully. An orderly gradual wind-down is preferable to an abrupt end to the scheme. However, I ask that the position of the hosts be kept under close review. Many of them have taken on real costs. The reduction in the payment should not result in hosts withdrawing accommodation prematurely. The risk of displacing thousands of Ukrainian beneficiaries into an already pressured private rental market is a real concern and must be avoided at all costs. Planning for the conclusion of temporary protection is under way and I welcome the work of senior officials and the engagement with the European Commission on transition arrangements. Ireland should play an active part in shaping a co-ordinated humane EU-wide approach. I support this motion. Ukrainians living in Ireland are a valued part of our community. Our job is now to provide as much certainty and stability as possible for them and for the hosts who have done so much.

Sentiment score: 0.20