Statement regarding Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) in Killarney

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth wishes to confirm that the planned move of Ukrainian displaced persons from Killarney to Westport will now not proceed.

The department has worked intensively overnight to source alternative accommodation for the Ukrainians affected, in Killarney. In light of these efforts, the move to Westport will not proceed, with those affected remaining in Killarney in new accommodation. The Ukraine Crisis Temporary Accommodation Team (UCTAT) will be in touch with the families to let them know about accommodation arrangements.

The wider situation in regards to accommodation remains extremely challenging. The transit centre at Citywest is nearing capacity and the possibility of a pause on entry to new arrivals to Citywest due to a nationwide shortage of accommodation cannot be discounted. Ireland is now accommodating 55,000 people between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants, compared to 7,500 last year.

The department is mindful of the impact that all such moves have on those affected, and will continue to deliver a humanitarian response to the needs of Ukrainian displaced persons and those seeking International Protection.