Homelessness reaches new record high with 17,517 in emergency accommodation including 5,571 children

"Homelessness in Ireland is far too high, and child homelessness is something that cannot be accepted. A specific action plan on child and family homelessness is to be published very shortly."

"There has been a 46pc increase in the overall figure since the lifting of the ban on no-fault evictions three years ago, when it was at 11,988 just before the pandemic-era measure was scrapped."

"The government has said the changes will provide greater security for renters and boost supply while the opposition has said it will dramatically increase rent costs by thousands a year and lead to increased homelessness through evictions."

In the last week of March, 17,517 individuals used emergency accommodation in Ireland, up from 17,308 the previous month. This includes 11,946 adults and 5,571 children, both at record levels. Tánaiste Simon Harris emphasized the unacceptability of child homelessness and announced an upcoming action plan. Since the lifting of the no-fault eviction ban, homelessness has increased by 46%. The latest figures reflect the impact of recent rental reforms, which the government claims will enhance security for renters, while critics warn of rising rents and evictions.

Read at Irish Independent