Today marks four years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, a war that continues to destroy civilian lives and displace millions. Across Ukraine, electricity and heating infrastructure remain under sustained drone and missile attacks by Russia, leaving families to endure freezing winter temperatures.

The Irish Refugee Council commends Ireland’s initial response to welcome refugees from Ukraine. Nearly 125,000 refugees from Ukraine, have received temporary protection, of whom 84,000 remain in Ireland. Department of Justice statistics show that about 42,000 Ukrainians who have been granted temporary protection are accommodated in properties pledged by individuals and families across Ireland, using the Accommodation Recognition Payment. As of mid-February, over 29,000 held active employment permits, 12,037 had enrolled for further education and training courses including 8,098 who were taking English language courses.

However, as we mark this anniversary, Government has introduced policy decisions that risk undermining these efforts. In November 2025, Government reduced the time newly arrived Ukrainians would be accommodated in State facilities from 90 days to 30 days. The Irish Refugee Council is aware of several families who, unable to find housing within this timeframe, were forced into homelessness. Others, including a war veteran and his family, had to return to Ukraine despite ongoing attacks on civilian infrastructure and life-threatening winter conditions. Delays in Irish Residency Permit renewals have also resulted in job losses-affecting stability and integration.

The Irish Refugee Council calls on Government to reverse regressive accommodation policies, ensure adequate capacity to process residency applications in a timely manner and, as recommended by the European Council in June 2025, provide clear pathways to longer term residency for those who are unable to return. The organisation also calls for the Accommodation Recognition Payment extension to March 2027, to align with the Temporary Protection regime.

Nick Henderson, Irish Refugee Council CEO, said:

“Four years on, the war has not ended and the need for protection cannot be wished away. Ireland showed leadership and compassion in its initial response, but we are now seeing a troubling regression in policy. Amid a housing crisis, 30 days is simply not enough time for families to secure alternative accommodation. Policies that result in homelessness, affect integration or force people to return to a warzone are dangerous and inhumane, particularly where capacity exists within the system. Government policies must be grounded in human rights and Ireland’s humanitarian values instead weakening support to those we have offered safety”.

Editor Notes

  • A first-hand account by war veteran Maksym who, together with his two daughters and wife, were forced to return to Ukraine after failing to find alternative accommodation in 30 days, is available upon request.
  • The Irish Refugee Council Ukraine Response team has supported over 9,000 people since the launch of Ukrainian Language Helpline in April 2022.
  • Statement announcing EU member states extension of temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine.
  • New government policy on accommodation for people fleeing the war in Ukraine.
  • An estimated 42,000 people accommodated through Accommodation Recognition Payment supported arrangements.
  • Central Statistics Office report on arrivals, employment and education enrolment.

Further information contact: Wendy Muperi, Communications Officer, wendy@irishrefugeecouncil.ie, 0858550434.