FOUR years on from the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine, the Irish Red Cross has launched research outlining the uncertainty Ukrainians living in Ireland face.
The Irish Red Cross surveyed Ukrainians across Ireland, including 95 living in county Cork, to examine how they feel about life in Ireland as the war enters its fifth year.
56% of respondents were employed in Ireland. 57% said they had just enough income to manage basic needs, and 15% struggled to afford essentials.
Despite these challenges, 80% of the 1,462 respondents expressed a desire to remain in Ireland ‘for a long time.’
Many survey respondents expressed concern about growing anti-Ukrainian and anti-migrant sentiments in Ireland, and were keen to share stories of the positive contributions that they and fellow Ukrainians are making to Ireland; working, starting new businesses, paying taxes, renting homes in remote areas, volunteering and engaging with community groups.
Respondents to the survey also expressed their gratitude to Ireland for providing them with a safe place to live.
The friendship, generosity, practical and emotional support they have received as well as the natural environment are things they appreciate most about Ireland.
Following the results of the survey, the Irish Red Cross recommends extending Accommodation Recognition Payment (ARP) payment to March 2027. 93% of those in ARP hosted accommodation stated that they were satisfied with their housing arrangement.
Niall O’Keeffe, Head of International & Migration at the Irish Red Cross said that the results of the survey ‘highlight the very positive impact the Accommodation Recognition Payment has had on Ukrainians seeking refuge here. It is a particularly crucial support for single parents, people with disabilities, new arrivals and people with limited English.’
Other recommendations made by the foundation following the survey include exploring ARP as a housing solution for other communities in Irish society and harnessing the contributions that Ukrainians have made to Irish society.
According to the survey, 39% of people working report being over-qualified for their jobs.
The Irish Red Cross says that pathways should be made available for them to enter work in their profession.