Government considers possibility of payment scheme for housing Ukrainian refugees

The public expenditure minister says officials are evaluating the practicalities of any such scheme and liaising with other departments but no developed plan is in place

Michael McGrath, Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform: the department is considering a potential payment scheme for individuals who accommodate Ukrainian refugees in their homes or vacant properties. Picture: Fergal Phillips

The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is engaging with other government departments to tease out the practical implications of a potential payment scheme for individuals who accommodate Ukrainian refugees in their homes or vacant properties.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin last week said the government would examine the prospect of introducing a scheme, but added that the priority was to first process the 21,000 pledges of accommodation made by individuals and families.

“Nothing has been ruled ...