Ukrainian refugees in Tipperary

Tipperary Co Council has set up temporary rest facilities for refugees from the war in Ukraine.

These are community halls, which are appropriate for three-four days' occupation and from which the residents move to more appropriate own room accommodation. The council has two rest centres in operation in Littleton and Clonmel, and both are in regular use.

As part of the humanitarian response to the Ukrainian crisis, 125 properties were made available by property owners in Tipperary under the pledging process. All pledged properties have been inspected and the Housing section is currently working to match families with the appropriate properties.

Of the 125 properties, 26% have been withdrawn or deemed unsuitable, 32 are shared properties and a further 32 are located in rural areas where own transport is required.

To date, 10 properties have been tenanted, providing medium term accommodation for 29

clients and all pledged properties are expected to be utilised by the end of July.

Semi-permanent accommodation facilities will be utilised for the next four to 36 months and will be own-room facilities (possibly with shared kitchen and living facilities). The council's Housing section is in the process of identifying vacant units that can accommodate 30-plus persons, which are currently vacant. This involves scoping out the works that are required to reach a minimal standard, costing same, facilitating works and then liaising with the Department of Housing for sign off before progressing.

The issue of permanent accommodation is being addressed at Government level and is likely to involve the OPW.