31st May 2024
Next Week’s Election is an opportunity for Progress – Simon Communities of Ireland
The latest figures released by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage show that the number of men, women and children in homelessness was 14,009 in April. This is an increase of 143 on the previous month.
These figures show an increase of 1,750 people (14%) in emergency accommodation in the 12 months since April 2023.
- 1,996 were families – a 16% (273) increase in the year
- 4,206 were children – a 17% (612) increase in the year.
Wayne Stanley, Executive Director of the Simon Communities of Ireland, said:
“The figures out today, showing a new record level of homelessness, are shameful and demand sustained action.
The strength and depth of the analysis of the problems in social housing delivery that the recently published Housing Commission report addresses is commendable as is the joined up thinking of the proposed solutions.
What we need to see now is the implementation of these solutions. In a weeks time, every local authority in the country will have a council made up of elected representatives with a new mandate, and Government must work with each of them to progress more homes for those at risk of and experiencing homelessness.
The Simon Communities across Ireland, are seeing firsthand the devastating effects of the housing crisis on the most vulnerable members of our society. Every day, we meet men, women and families who are struggling to find a secure, affordable home. The issues that need to be addressed are clear.
The opportunities for valuable progress have to be positively grasped.”
ENDS
For media enquiries contact:
Aileen Gaskin
P: 087 7724 717
E: communications@simoncommunity.com
