Donegal Leads the Nation in Housing Ukrainian Refugees Through ARP Scheme

Recent government figures reveal Donegal as a significant contributor in hosting Ukrainian refugees through the Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) scheme.

The county now supports 1,305 people who are receiving ARP financial assistance, making it the third highest in the Republic of Ireland. This initiative aims to provide safe and stable accommodation for individuals and families who have fled the conflict in Ukraine.

State Financial Contributions Reach €239m

Since the inception of the ARP scheme in early 2022, the Irish State has disbursed €239 million to over 22,000 accommodation providers across the country. This funding supports those housing more than 49,840 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs).

Currently, over 15,500 hosts are accommodating almost 36,000 BOTPs in around 19,000 different properties. Dublin continues to lead the pack, with 4,518 people receiving ARP, while Cork follows closely with 1,828 hosts.

Exclusions and Program Structure

It’s important to note that the ARP scheme is exclusively for those who are providing accommodation on a non-commercial basis. Individuals or organizations that are housing Ukrainians for profit cannot apply for these funds.

Additionally, participation in the ARP program does not establish a landlord-tenant relationship or provide automatic tenancy rights for the refugees. Hosting is intended as a temporary measure to ensure safety and stability for those fleeing the conflict.

Housing International Protection (IP) Applicants Surpasses €1 billion

Minister Foley has also unveiled that the annual State spend on accommodating International Protection (IP) applicants has now exceeded €1 billion for the first time. This is a substantial increase from the €651.75 million spent in 2023.

The daily average expenditure stands at €2.75 million, reflecting a significant rise in accommodation costs for IP applicants. Since 2019, the State has invested €2.5 billion in housing IP applicants, with the costs increasing by 9% in 2024 compared to 2023.

Trends in IPAS Accommodation

The most recent International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS) figures highlight Nigerians as the largest group housed in IPAS accommodation, with 6,914 currently residing in these facilities. Other notable groups include Georgians (3,072), Algerians (2,733), Somalis (2,388), Zimbabweans (2,209), and Jordanians (2,157).

According to the data, Afghanistan and Pakistan each house around 1,700 and 1,650 applicants, respectively. Bangladesh (1,373) and South Africa (1,249) also show significant numbers. Additionally, 694 residents from the occupied Palestinian territory are accommodated.

It’s worth noting that South Africa, Georgia, and Algeria have been designated as “Safe Countries” under EU regulations, yet substantial numbers still seek and receive protection in Ireland.

Accommodation Growth Since 2019

Minister Foley emphasized the substantial growth in IPAS accommodations. At the end of 2021, IPAS provided housing for more than 7,000 people, a number that has nearly quadrupled to almost 33,000 today.

Of these, approximately 9,000 are children housed with their families, demonstrating Ireland’s commitment to family reunification under the IP umbrella.

Insights and Impact

The ARP scheme and increased IPAS spend highlight Ireland’s position as a compassionate and supportive nation, willing to take on the responsibility of housing refugees fleeing conflict. Donegal’s substantial contribution to the ARP scheme showcases the community’s readiness to welcome and support those in need.

The ongoing burden of accommodation costs underscores the broader implications of Ireland’s humanitarian efforts. As the number of IP applicants rises, so does the financial and logistical challenge faced by the State and its service providers.

Despite these challenges, the success and scale-up of the ARP and IPAS programs illustrate the dedication of both the Irish government and private providers in ensuring that Ukrainian refugees and other international protection applicants have the immediate need for housing met.

Actionable Feedback

If you have insights or experiences related to this initiative, whether as a host or a concerned community member, we encourage you to share your thoughts. Your input can help foster a deeper understanding and support for refugees in our community.

Join the conversation, subscribe to our newsletters for more updates on current affairs, and share on social media to keep others informed. Together, we can continue to support the efforts of Donegal and other counties in providing a safe haven for those in need.