Update: 87-Year-Old Wheelchair-Bound Refugee With Dementia To Remain In Wexford After Eviction Threat

In an update this morning, Kfm has been informed that Olha Cherkashyna will now remain in Wexford.

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A 87-year-old Ukrainian refugee, who is wheelchair-bound and has dementia, is facing imminent eviction from her accommodation in Wexford and relocation to Floods Cross in Naas.

Wexford Cllr Lisa McDonald is raising concerns about the government’s plan to streamline accommodation services for Ukrainian refugees.

She said the elderly woman', Olha Cherkashyna, has complex medical needs that make her particularly vulnerable.

"This lady is currently living in a hotel in Ross Strand with her son," McDonald explained. "She has complex needs and is very worried about moving to Flood Cross. Her son believes she might not survive it."

Despite repeated attempts to delay the move, she said the government has remained unresponsive.

She said the family have been dealing with a system that is "faceless and nameless," with no clear point of contact for individuals in need.

A bus is expected to collect Olha tomorrow at 11am and bring her to Floods Cross.

"It's been very difficult to get any answers," Mc Donald said.

"We've contacted the government, the county council, and the HSE, but it seems like our emails are falling on deaf ears."

Five children currently live in the hotel - four attend the local primary school in Rosslare Strand, and one is enrolled at St. Peter’s College in Wexford town for secondary school. While housing has been found for the families of three of the primary school children, the remaining families, including Olha and her son, have been left in limbo.

In a letter issued to the families facing relocation, the Department of Integration urges anyone with medical conditions to contact the Department of Integration as soon as possible.

However, McDonald said she understands that Olha's family have outlined her needs via the email but have not received a response.

Speaking to Kfm, she expressed deep concern for the elderly woman's well-being, given her fragile health and the potential risks associated with the new environment.

Local residents and community groups have rallied behind the refugee family, offering support and seeking alternative accommodation options.

However, finding suitable housing in the area has proven challenging.

With the relocation date set for tomorrow, McDonald has urged the government to reconsider its decision and find a more appropriate solution for Olha.

She said the government's focus on streamlining services should not come at the expense of individual needs, particularly those of the most vulnerable members of society.

Kfm has contacted the Department of Integration for comment.

You can listen to the full interview below.