Publication
Christmas 2023 Absence Policy
From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth
Published on
Last updated on
It has been agreed that for the Christmas 2023 period of 22 December 2023 - 08 January 2024 Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs) may travel freely and be absent from their State funded temporary accommodation without having to notify UCTAT in advance. The Absence protocol does not apply to BOTPs currently residing in Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP), Pledged or Modular housing who may make their own arrangements to travel as they wish.
BOTPs must have returned to their State funded temporary accommodation by 08 January 2024, or risk losing that accommodation. During this time BOTPs must continue paying the mandatory contribution charge to their accommodation provider.
Only those with an approved exceptional absence or those who have relinquished their accommodation voluntarily through the agreed form may be absent after 08 January 2024.
Any unsanctioned absences will be treated as refusals by UCTAT and the accommodation may be reallocated. Any BOTP found to have refused an offer of accommodation will not be eligible for another offer of accommodation from the State.
At all times, parents/ legal guardians remain responsible for minors in their care, who cannot be left unaccompanied in accommodation under any circumstances.
Responsibility for personal effects during an absence remains at the risk of the individuals; UCTAT reserves the right to dispose of items left in long-term storage (beyond 60 days).
What to do if you are leaving the state?
If you are getting income support from the Department of Social Protection you should let them know of your absence in advance of travel, you can do this by visiting your local Intreo Centre or Branch Office.