Simon poll criticises Government on homeless

A NATIONAL opinion poll reveals that 71% of people believe housing should be a constitutional right and 42% believe homelessness is a disgrace to society.

Carried out by the Simon Communities of Ireland, the survey results place responsibility for solving the homeless problem squarely with the Government. More than three-quarters (76%) of poll participants said the Government should take the lead role in eliminating homelessness. Just 6% pointed the finger at local authorities and 1% at charities.

More than half of those questioned said they would help combat homelessness but for time pressures and one-third (34%) said they would make a donation to an organisation which helps the homeless.