Civil Defence providing emergency homeless beds

The Civil Defence is helping with emergency accomodation for homeless people in Dublin.

Recent figures reveal that the number in temporary beds has climbed to 1,600 with people sleeping rough up 50% since last April.

The Irish Times reports today that the Civil Defence have been called in to assist, by providing 20 emergency beds at its headquarters on Wolfe Tone Quay in the capital.

On average, six people who are new to homeless services are presenting on a daily basis in Dublin.

Authorities say the escalating problem is the result of growing demand for assistance and a shortage of affordable or available accommodation in the private rented sector.