Citizenship Hurdles Arise for Asylum Seekers Who Can’t Afford Accommodation Fees
Recent proposals by the Irish government could significantly impact asylum seekers, particularly those unable to afford new accommodation fees. If these plans are approved, they will introduce barriers to citizenship for applicants who fail to pay these charges.
Details of the Proposed Accommodation Charges
The Coalition aims to charge individuals applying for International Protection who have been granted permission to work. The charges will vary based on earnings, ranging from €15 to €238 weekly.
Implications for Citizenship Applications
- Applicants with outstanding accommodation arrears could face a block on their citizenship applications.
- Failure to pay may lead to debt collection actions and enforcement in courts.
- Furthermore, applicants might face extended waiting periods before being eligible to apply for citizenship, even if arrears are settled.
While discussions included the potential removal of work permits for non-payers, this option was deemed legally unfeasible. A source noted that implementing this system may involve costs exceeding the revenues from the new charges in the short term.
Impact on Refugee Accommodation
Under the current proposals, approximately 8,000 applicants may be affected by these charges. Furthermore, the government is considering extending this regime to an additional 5,000 individuals who have permission to reside but are still in state-funded accommodation.
Changes to Refugee Support Measures
- The period of state-provided accommodation for Ukrainian refugees could be reduced from 90 days to just 30.
- Additionally, the payment for those hosting Ukrainian refugees may be cut from €600 to €400 monthly, following a previous reduction from €800.
Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan and Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy are spearheading these proposed changes. However, it remains uncertain if the final decision will take place during the upcoming Cabinet meeting.
