Simon Harris questioned about €7,000 car repairs for refugees

In the Dáil, Tánaiste Simon Harris faced questions about claims that the Irish government is paying for car repairs for some Ukrainian refugees. Independent TD Ken O'Flynn said that payments for vehicle repairs, including an engine replacement costing €7,000, have been made to beneficiaries of Temporary Protection from Ukraine. O'Flynn also questioned whether similar assistance was available to asylum seekers from other countries. He expressed surprise, stating that he knew of no other government that covers car repairs. Harris acknowledged the claims and promised to investigate. However, he emphasized that the government is not providing widespread assistance for car issues. Instead, he highlighted the support given to people fleeing war in Ukraine and noted their positive contributions to the Irish economy. The debate became heated, with O'Flynn and Harris exchanging remarks. Harris described O'Flynn's comments as lacking perspective, and he defended the support provided to Ukrainian refugees. He expressed pride in the assistance Ireland gives to those who have faced difficult situations.