The leader of the Labour Party is calling on the government to fast track proposals to ensure Urkanian refugees or people seeking international protection in Ireland are not left sleeping on the street.
Ivana Bacik made the call as proposals going before Cabinet would see Ukrainians limited to 90 days in State accommodation, and see their 220 euro weekly welfare payment cut to just under €39.
Deputy Bacik said the government should concentrate on refurbishing buildings that have been lying empty to meet accommodation demands:
"I have consistently called on the government to take a more coordinated approach to this. There are many, many instances of empty accommodations that are available, that could be repurposed. Places in my own constituency like Jury's Hotel in Ballsbridge, like Baggot Street Hospital, which we should see repurposed".
