In a move aimed at facilitating the accommodation of Ukrainian refugees, the government has disclosed the locations of five new reception centers across Ireland. This development coincides with the implementation of the 90-day accommodation limit and adjustments to social welfare provisions for new arrivals, effective from tomorrow.

Six accommodation centers have been earmarked by the government to offer temporary housing for Ukrainian refugees, with the initial five confirmed locations as follows: Ballyogan Road, Dublin City (capacity: 392) Stradbally, Co. Laois (capacity: 950) Fernbank, Limerick City (capacity: 250) Punchestown, Co. Kildare (capacity: 378) Gerald Griffin Street, Cork City (capacity: 107)

The Department of Integration underscores that these centers will primarily focus on orienting newcomers to life and work in Ireland, as well as facilitating avenues for independent accommodation. Commencing Thursday, March 14, individuals fleeing the conflict in Ukraine who register for temporary protection and seek state-provided accommodation will be housed in these centers for a maximum period of 90 days.

During their stay, residents will receive essential services such as food, laundry, and integration support. However, starting tomorrow, standard social welfare payments will no longer be accessible to residents of these centers. Instead, they will be eligible for a reduced weekly allowance of €38.80 per adult and €29.80 per child, equivalent to those seeking asylum from other countries. Importantly, entitlement to child benefit remains unaffected by these adjustments.

Upon departure from the state accommodation centers or upon securing independent accommodation arrangements, individuals may apply for standard social welfare assistance, subject to meeting eligibility criteria, akin to Irish citizens.

It's crucial to note that these changes do not impact individuals from Ukraine who arrived in Ireland prior to the implementation of these policies. The government emphasizes that these adjustments are aimed at aligning Ireland's approach more closely with that of other EU member states.