Over 500 Ukrainian refugees in Ireland have had their Free Travel passes revoked as part of recent cuts to social welfare benefits. The reduction in welfare payments for Ukrainians residing in State-provided accommodations, such as hotels, has left many struggling with a mere €38.80 per week.
Individuals who were receiving disability payments, pensions, and jobseekers allowance are among those affected by these changes. In addition to the decrease in financial support, many have now been informed that their free travel passes, linked to their welfare payments, are also being taken away.
The Free Travel Scheme, which allows holders to travel for free on public transport, is no longer available to 320 Ukrainian recipients of Disability Allowance and 200 Carers Allowance recipients. This move has been criticized by the Ukraine Civil Society Forum, who highlighted the impact on the most vulnerable individuals.
The Government defended their decision, aligning the changes with the welfare entitlements of other asylum seekers. However, critics argue that this action will only exacerbate the isolation and hardship faced by Ukrainian refugees in Ireland.
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