Ukrainian refugees find themselves in limbo, in Northern Ireland

Refugees escaping the Ukraine conflict have found themselves in limbo in Northern Ireland.

They were caught between the UK’s and the Republic of Ireland’s approaches to the problem.

Ireland was the first European Union member to suspend visa rules for Ukrainians.

Almost 30,000 have sought refuge there to date.

Instead, the United Kingdom, which includes Northern Ireland, has launched sponsorship and family reunification programs.

Yet, they have been criticized for their inefficiency and complexity.

Many refugees arrived in Northern Ireland over the open land border with the Republic, unable to wait for permits.

There were as many as four out of five, according to Finance Minister Conor Murphy.

Officials claim that this makes it impossible to determine who and when has arrived.

In addition, not possessing a visa can cause issues with access to public services.