Recent figures from the Department of Housing reveal an alarming rise in homelessness, with 4,653 children and 2,185 families in emergency accommodation. Social and housing advocates, including TD Rory Hearne and Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan, express deep concern, labeling the situation a national embarrassment. They urge the new Minister for Housing, James Browne, to prioritize social housing for long-term homeless families, referencing past successes in reducing homelessness. Critics argue that new tenant policies could exacerbate the problem, reflecting a failure to prioritize vulnerable populations amid rising evictions.
"As the clocks move forward tomorrow, bringing longer and brighter evenings, it should be a time when all children look forward to playing outside. Instead, 4,653 children are stuck living in emergency accommodation, with no place to call home."
"This situation would have been considered utterly unacceptable just ten years ago, and we must remember that is something that can be solved."
"One key measure would be for new Minister for Housing, James Browne, to implement the Programme for Government commitment that more of the new supply of social housing is used to provide homes for long-term homeless families."
"The new proposals shift that balance entirely away from concern about homelessness and effectively withdraw the 'safety net' put in place by the previous government."
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