Taoiseach Micheál Martin is expected to give an update on how Ireland will cope with the influx of Ukrainian refugees as it has emerged 6,600 Ukrainians have already arrived into the country.
Mr Martin is in Washington DC where he will begin his first day of official engagements before meeting US President Joe Biden on Wednesday night.
However, domestic issues back home have led to an emergency Cabinet meeting being called on Tuesday with Ministers dialling in virtually from around the world.
The Irish Mirror understands there is pressure mounting on finding sufficient capacity where refugees can be accommodated.
The Irish Government hopes to use hotels as a temporary measure but a senior source said due to St Patrick’s Day, hotel availability is short with tourists travelling to celebrate in Ireland.
However, up to 20,000 Irish people have pledged their assistance and both the Department of Justice and the Department of Children are working on establishing a system that will get Ukrainians into people’s homes.
The Irish Government is working to establish where Ukrainians can be housed with Irish people who have said they can stay in their house.
Accommodation offers are required to be near services, with refugees being able to access a bank, post office, shops, schools and crèches.
The house would also need to be close to public transport.
It’s also understood the €4 billion Covid contingency fund could also be redirected to pay for accommodation needed to house refugees.
The Taoiseach is due to speak to Irish media in Washington later on Tuesday where he will be questioned on immediate plans to give assistance to Ukrainians arriving here.
The Cabinet will also discuss a proposal to accept another 500 Ukrainian refugees from Moldova due to pressure on services in Moldova.
Later on Tuesday in Washington, the Taoiseach will attend the unveiling of the bust of former SDLP leader John Hume.
Mr Martin is expected to be joined by family members of Mr Hume who passed away in August 2020.
Mr Martin will also attend a Tourism Ireland reception at the Kennedy Centre where there will be a Riverdance performance.
