Misleading Chart Compares Benefits for Ukrainian and Irish Families

A recently circulated chart on social media misrepresents the financial support provided to Ukrainian and Irish families, perpetuating misconceptions about the treatment of refugees in Ireland. The chart, titled “Irish families want to be treated equal to Ukrainians,” contrasts a hypothetical Ukrainian family with an Irish family, suggesting that Ukrainian families receive significantly more financial benefits.

Since its posting on Facebook on October 8, 2023, the chart has been shared over 100 times. It features a Ukrainian family depicted with silhouettes of two adults and two children, while the Irish family includes “genuine foreigners” who have made Ireland their home. The claims made about the Irish family paint a grim picture, stating that they “can’t save for a deposit or mortgage” and “struggle to make ends meet.” In stark contrast, the chart suggests that Ukrainian families “have money to go on holidays” and “save money” due to living in free accommodation.

However, many entries in the chart are based on inaccurate information. For instance, it claims that Irish families do not receive welfare for their children. This is incorrect; Irish families currently receive €140 monthly in child benefits for each child they support.

Additionally, the chart asserts that Ukrainian families enjoy free public transport. While they can use public transportation without charge upon their arrival in the country to reach their accommodations, this benefit typically does not extend beyond their initial days in Ireland.

The chart also alleges that Ukrainians receive free groceries, a statement that lacks context. While designated accommodation centres may provide food and other services for a limited time, residents can only stay in these centres for 90 days, making it unrealistic to imply that they could save enough money to buy a house as the chart suggests.

Furthermore, the claim that Ukrainian pets are provided free kennel services and veterinary care is outdated. Although there was a scheme that offered such services, it ended in 2022, and any associated charitable initiatives have also concluded. The chart misleadingly implies that Ukrainians benefit from free car repairs, a claim that has been previously debunked.

These assertions echo earlier inaccurate claims suggesting that Ukrainian refugees receive preferential treatment over Irish citizens. Similar misleading information circulated in a previous chart that compared the treatment of apprentices, which also gained traction last month.

The Journal has previously clarified numerous false claims regarding the treatment of immigrants and refugees, such as the erroneous assertion that the government provides migrants €60,000 to start new businesses or that asylum seekers are exempt from income tax for a year after gaining work rights.

By exposing these inaccuracies, The Journal aims to foster a better understanding of the realities faced by both Irish and Ukrainian families. The ongoing effort to counteract misinformation is crucial for maintaining transparency and fairness in public discourse.

Readers seeking to verify such claims can access The Journal’s FactCheck, which is a signatory to the International Fact-Checking Network’s Code of Principles. This initiative aims to equip the public with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of current events and social issues accurately.

As misinformation continues to circulate, it is essential for readers to rely on credible sources and fact-checking resources to make informed decisions.