Survey reveals fears of rise in homelessness

THERE are public fears that more people will end up homeless as a result of the recession, according to an opinion poll.

The survey of 1,000 people was conducted on behalf of the Simon Community and found 83% of those questioned said they felt the number of people becoming homeless will increase as a result of the current economic climate.

In addition, 72% of those surveyed said an increase in homelessness would coincide with a decrease in the government funding available to tackle the problem.

The findings come ahead of Simon Week 2009, which runs from October 5 to 11 and is supported by EBS Building Society.

In recent weeks representatives of Threshold and Focus Ireland have also expressed concern that the Government’s target of ridding Ireland of long-term homelessness by the end of next year is unlikely to be achieved.

In addition, growing numbers of house repossessions have increased pressure on some families and individuals at a time when agencies supporting those who are homeless have experienced cuts in funding.

Chief executive of the Simon Communities of Ireland, Patrick Burke said Simon Week would be an important opportunity to ensure that the problem of homelessness does not fall down the political agenda.

“It is so important that Irish people understand that homelessness never went away during the years of the Celtic Tiger,” he said.

“People who are sleeping rough and people who are homeless for a very long time are the most vulnerable people in Ireland today.

“The recent economic downturn means that even more people than before are at risk of becoming homeless.”

He added that the Government target of ending rough sleeping and long- term homelessness in Ireland by 2010 was still achievable, despite the country’s current economic woes.

Aidan Power of EBS said: “We are acutely aware of those on the margins of our society, for whom the idea of owning their own home is out of reach.”