Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 February 2026
425. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the reasons for the accommodation recognition payment scheme's tax-free status and lack of means-testing for Ukrainian hosts; the reforms proposed to align it with taxpayer-funded supports, such as HAP, to cut costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15780/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) scheme is intended to recognise the valued contribution of private individuals who have opened their homes, whether in its entirety or a room, at their own expense to provide accommodation to those seeking refuge from Ukraine. The payment is made to the host in recognition of their generosity, not to the temporary protection beneficiary.
The scheme was introduced at a time of significant crisis in Europe arising from the invasion of Ukraine, which has seen some 125,000 people seek temporary protection in Ireland. Sole reliance on accommodation procured from the hospitality sector was not sustainable to respond to the needs of those seeking accommodation supports. The Government moved to introduce the ARP scheme, which was established in July 2022 under the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2022.
The ARP is not a rent subsidy, and it is not payable where there is a rental agreement in place between the host and the temporary protection beneficiary residing in the property. The payment does not create any obligation for the beneficiaries in the accommodation, such as payment of rent or provision of services, however, the beneficiaries may agree to contribute towards the cost of utilities.
The Government is aware of concerns that have been raised in relation to the perceived impact of the scheme on the private rental market, and steps have been taken to address this. The monthly contribution rate was reduced from €800 to €600 from 1 June 2025. This was to taper and align the levels of support, as well as to mitigate any unintended impact of the scheme on the private rental sector. The Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2026, signed into law on 24 February 2026, also amends the scheme’s eligibility criteria to preclude properties registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) with a view to safeguarding such accommodation for tenants.
The ARP is not comparable to the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) or any other housing support payments and its duration is subject to Oireachtas approval. It is my intention to seek approval to extend the scheme for a further year to 31 March 2027 to align with the timeframe for the Temporary Protection Directive and to allow for an orderly wind down of the scheme. There are no plans to amend the ARP to align with housing support payments such as HAP.
