Irish Government Plans Charges for Working Asylum Seekers' Accommodation

The Irish government is considering a new policy requiring asylum seekers who are working and living in state-provided accommodation to contribute financially towards their housing costs, with charges ranging from €15 to €238 per week based on earnings. Proposed by Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan and Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy, the plan aims to reduce government support and address "pull factors" in the asylum system. Failure to pay these charges could result in legal action, debt collection, and barriers to citizenship applications, including delayed eligibility until arrears are cleared. The scheme is projected to affect up to 8,000 applicants and may also extend to 5,000 individuals who have been granted permission to stay but continue residing in state accommodation. The policy, expected to take nine to twelve months to implement, has sparked debate over social cohesion and the rights of asylum seekers, with some officials emphasizing the importance of contributions from those with means. Additionally, the government is considering reducing the state accommodation period for Ukrainian refugees from 90 to 30 days.