Chamber and committees

We have heard about the pressures on accommodation. There is a large caveat here, given how the war in Ukraine could progress. We hear warnings coming out of the country of a new Russian offensive. In that context, are there emergency contingency plans in place if there is a large, fresh influx of Ukrainians wishing to come to Scotland?

Thank you. I am also keen to hear your views on how important Scotland’s third sector has been in supporting displaced Ukrainians. Do third sector organisations have the resources that they require in order to do that?

To follow on from access to healthcare, I note that, last week, the consul highlighted access to dental care as a particular issue. Do witnesses have any reflections on that? Pat Togher looks keen.

That is very helpful.

Thank you. I have another question for the panel. We have already touched on parts of this issue. In your experience, how important has the third sector been in supporting displaced Ukrainians in Scotland, and does it have the resources that it needs to fulfil that vital role?

Thank you for that.

Finally, I note that there have been reports of infection control issues on the cruise ships. Has there been any improvement in that situation?

In Edinburgh, I believe. I was just wondering whether you knew whether there had been any improvement in the situation, but that is fine—we can leave it there.

Consul, in your opening statement, you talked about access to mental health support and enhancing psychological support programmes. Given that half of the displaced persons are facing trauma, could you expand on that point a little?

On access to healthcare more generally, we have heard about some incidents of Ukrainians not being able to access a doctor. Has that been your experience?

There have been reports of issues on cruise ships—