Charity calls for immediate action on homelessness

The homeless charity Depaul last night called for immediate action to alleviate the plight of those living rough on the streets.

Speaking yesterday after the death of a homeless man in Dublin’s Temple Bar area, the charity said it was saddened it occurred despite the best efforts of the statutory and voluntary sectors over the last few weeks to provide emergency homeless services. “We can no longer allow people to sleep rough, especially at this crucial time of the year,” said Depaul CEO Kerry Anthony.

“Cold weather, wind and rain are affecting those who are already among the most vulnerable in our society. We can no longer allow unnecessary tragedies like this happen,” she said.

The man was known to Focus Ireland’s street outreach team which operates in partnership with the Peter McVerry Trust. Focus Ireland director of advocacy Mike Allen said: “This is a very sad and tragic way for anyone to die. Sadly, people who are entrenched in rough-sleeping are highly vulnerable and are often struggling with issues such as alcohol and general health problems.

“These issues can see people using emergency beds some nights and then sporadically sleeping rough. Sometimes they don’t always engage due to the complex issues involved.”

Mr Allen said more could be done to give vulnerable people the best chance.

“We must provide homes for people who are homeless as this provides a more stable setting for them to give them a better chance of being supported to overcome difficulties they may have and prevent them from becoming homeless again.”