86 Ukrainians evicted from State housing for unauthorized absence

Between October 9, 2023, and October 9, 2024, 86 Ukrainian refugees were evicted from state-provided accommodations in Ireland due to unauthorized absences, following a policy change by the Department of Integration. This amendment suspended the previous allowance for short-term absences, permitting departures only under exceptional circumstances approved by the Ukraine Crisis Temporary Accommodation Team. Unapproved absences were deemed a refusal of emergency accommodation, potentially leading to eviction.

The revised absence protocol aimed to ensure that the state was not funding vacant beds unnecessarily. Under the new guidelines, residents could only be absent for more than one night in exceptional situations, such as medical emergencies, with prior approval. The Department of Integration stated that individuals could retroactively apply for approval, but unapproved absences might result in the implementation of the Refusals Policy, leading to eviction.

The enforcement of this policy began in March 2024, with the first eviction notice issued on March 1. Subsequent months saw a gradual increase in eviction notices: eight in March, 11 in April, nine in May, and so on, totaling 86 by October 9, 2024. These notices informed recipients that their accommodation had been withdrawn and that no further offers would be made.

Concerns Raised by Support Organizations

Organizations supporting Ukrainian refugees, such as the Ukraine Civil Society Forum, expressed concerns about the stringent implementation of the absence policy. They highlighted cases where individuals were unaware of the rules or faced challenges in obtaining permission for necessary travel, leading to evictions. The forum called for greater transparency and compassion in the policy’s application, emphasizing the serious implications of losing accommodation for vulnerable individuals.

In response to these concerns, the Department of Integration noted that individuals could relinquish their accommodation for travel and reapply upon return, though without guarantees of similar quality or location. Additionally, an exemption was made during the Christmas period, allowing residents to travel without prior permission over a three-week span.

This policy adjustment reflects the challenges in managing emergency accommodations and the importance of clear communication and compassionate implementation to support those affected.