Ukrainian refugees to have welfare allowances cut under new plan

Last December, the Government decided to cut welfare rates for newly-arriving Ukrainians, with these measures taking effect in March.

However, the new plan will extend to all Ukrainians within State accommodation, regardless of when they arrived here.

There will be a 12-week lead-in period before the cuts are introduced.

A series of other measures on immigration are also due to be approved, including a review of payments provided to international protection applicants.

This review is expected to report back with its recommendations within six weeks.

Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys said: “We want to make sure we’re giving people what they’re entitled to. Nothing more, nothing less.”

Additionally, Enterprise Minister Peter Burke is to step up targeted workplace inspections to ensure that all businesses are compliant with work permit regulations for migrant workers.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Helen McEntee will update the Government shortly on a review of the ‘safe countries’ list.

A separate review is also taking place into visa-free travel arrangements between Ireland and countries from where large numbers of international protection applicants are arriving.