Irish News - Simon Harris Responds to Claims of €7,000 Car Repair Payments for Ukrainian Refugees

Tánaiste Simon Harris has pledged to investigate claims that the Irish Government has paid up to €7,000 for vehicle repairs, including engine replacements and tyre purchases, for some Ukrainian refugees living in Ireland under Temporary Protection.

The issue was raised in the Dáil by Independent Ireland TD Ken O’Flynn, who questioned whether similar support is available for asylum seekers from other countries, and expressed disbelief that Ireland could be “repairing people’s cars” using public funds.

O’Flynn also referred to previous media reports suggesting the State spends €1 million a month accommodating pets brought by refugees, calling into question how taxpayer money is being used.

Tánaiste Urges “Perspective” on Support for Refugees

Mr Harris responded firmly, defending the support offered to Ukrainians who have fled war, while stating that he would seek full information on any such payments. However, he pushed back on the suggestion that such payments are widespread:

“Let’s have a sense of perspective. I don’t want people thinking there’s a national car repair scheme for Ukrainians – that’s simply not the case,” he said.

“The people I know from Ukraine are making a bloody great contribution to this country. They’re working, their kids are in our schools, and they’re very welcome here.”

Exchange Turns Heated in the Dáil

The exchange between Harris and O’Flynn became tense, with the Tánaiste accusing the TD of dog-whistling—a political term suggesting coded or suggestive language meant to inflame public sentiment.

“They’re European,” Harris added, referring to Ukrainians in Ireland. “And I look forward to welcoming them into the European Union very shortly.”

What’s Next?

Government departments may now face scrutiny over discretionary social welfare or emergency payments provided to Temporary Protection beneficiaries.
Clarification is expected from Harris or the Department of Social Protection on whether such payments were issued, and under what circumstances.
The incident reflects growing political tension over Ireland’s response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis amid broader housing and cost-of-living concerns.

While the Tánaiste reaffirmed Ireland’s support for those fleeing war, the debate highlights increasing political pressure over transparency and fairness in refugee and welfare spending.