More than 100,000 Ukrainians fleeing the war in their home country came to Ireland and were welcomed with generous welfare packages, far in excess of those offered in most European countries.
The signal that this was about to change came earlier this year when it was announced that new arrivals from Ukraine would be given the same rate as others seeking international protection – €38.80 per week – and would be guaranteed just 90 days accommodation instead of the open-ended arrangement enjoyed by those who came earlier.
Now Taoiseach Simon Harris has announced that all Ukrainian refugees face having their allowances cut, within three months, from the full jobseekers’ rate of €232 per week to €38.80 per week.
He has signalled too that all benefits being given to all asylum seekers are also under review.
Irish Times poll: Voters prefer Fianna Fáil-Fine Gael coalition and Harris as taoiseach
Poll analysis: Trump factor sees ‘radical’ change lose appeal
Irish soldiers prevented from leaving Lebanon after drunken airport fight
Scientology recruits asylum seekers in Dublin, promising them ‘help with refugee status’
With immigration the number one topic on the doorsteps facing politicians campaigning for the local and European elections, Harry McGee explains the timing of the harsh new measures and just how important the issue of migration will be at the ballot box.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon.
