The Deputy may be aware that Recital 4 of the EU Council Recommendation encourages Member States to promote and facilitate the transition of beneficiaries of temporary protection into other immigration statuses, where the conditions of such permissions are met and where the beneficiaries wish to remain in Ireland.
The Recommendation also sets out examples of legal statuses open to beneficiaries to apply for, such as those based on employment, self-employment, education, or a dedicated national permit - provided the person meets the required conditions for the relevant permission. Notably, it is currently open to beneficiaries of temporary protection to transition into existing legal statuses in Ireland. Information on the different permissions can be found at the following link: www.irishimmigration.ie/registering-your-immigration-permission/information-on-registering/immigration-permission-stamps/
In recognition of the contribution the people from Ukraine have made in Ireland, since arrival following the outbreak of war, the Government agreed to introduce an additional dedicated national permit for independent beneficiaries of temporary protection to live and work in Ireland on a more durable basis. The alternative permission will be provided for an initial two-year period, renewable for periods of two years thereafter. This permission is not intended to replace Temporary Protection, but to provide an alternative for those who meet the eligibility conditions.
In relation to point 5 of the Recommendation, this refers to the measures necessary concerning the conditions of residence of persons who have special needs and do not meet the requirements for other statuses, such as the proposed alternative permission. It should be noted that individuals who do not meet the eligibility conditions of the alternative permission, or existing national permissions, will continue to be supported under temporary protection for so long as the Directive remains in effect. This will also include supports such as continued State accommodation for people with circumstances such as those with special needs which make independent living a challenge. Upon the expiry of temporary protection, Ireland will fulfil its obligations under the Directive to include measures referenced in Chapter V - Return and measures after Temporary Protection has ended.
