Wayne Stanley, National Spokesperson for the Simon Communities: We undertook a short comparative analysis of properties available for rent in a number of urban areas across the country (Monday 2 March 2020 and Wednesday 25 March 2020.) The numbers reveal a mixed picture, and while there has been an increase in the number of properties available, we are not seeing a significant upturn in appropriate properties within HAP limits particularly outside Dublin.
Dublin has seen the biggest increase in available properties within Homeless HAP rates, however these are in the main one-bedroom homes and it is not clear that these would be appropriate for a couple/one parent with one child. Galway, which enjoys a thriving tourism industry, has seen an increase of 40 properties available up with 114 properties now on the market compared with 74 on 2 March. Just three of those 114 properties are within HAP limits.
The market rental rates did see some downward movement but as our analysis shows this drop does not constitute affordability.
Wayne Stanley continued: The increase in properties available, is something that should be utilised as the COVID-19 emergency escalates, the announcement from Dublin City Council and the DRHE of 160 units of accommodation secured for use by homeless services is an excellent example of how this can work.
This analysis also highlights that homelessness and housing will remain the priority issue once we get to the other side of this crisis.
Ends.
For media queries and interview requests
Emma Allen
Communications
Tel: 085 806 5141
E: communications@simoncommunity.com
About Simon Communities
The Simon Communities support over 16,700 men, women and children. We have 50 years of experience providing homeless, housing and treatment services to people facing the trauma and stress of homelessness. We are a network of independent Communities based in Cork, Dublin, Dundalk, Galway, the Midlands, the Mid West, the North West and the South East, responding to local needs and supported by a National Office in the areas of policy, research, communications and best practice. We share common values and ethos in tackling homelessness and, informed by our grassroots services, we campaign for more effective policies and legislation regionally, nationally and at European level. Whatever the issue, Simon’s door is always open for as long as we are needed. For more information, please visit www.simon.ie.
Services include:
- Homelessness prevention, tenancy sustainment and resettlement.
- Street outreach, emergency accommodation and harm reduction.
- Housing with support and Housing First services.
- Homeless specific health and wellbeing services (counselling; addiction treatment and recovery; and mental health supports).
- Personal development, education, training and employment services.
- Food banks, drop-in centres and soup runs.
