41% increase in people using Simon's services

There has been a 41% increase in the number of people accessing the Simon Community’s services in the past two years.

The charity said it was stretched to the limit helping 6,000 homeless people across the country, every day.

Environment Minister Alan Kelly launched Simon’s annual report this morning, where he said his department was working hard to ensure people are off the streets this Christmas, and beyond.

"It's not just about giving people accommodation but also ensuring that people's dignity is maintained," he said.

"We have the night café and the transport services in Dublin and other services across Ireland. This is an asolutely critical issue (and) I'm working to ensure we have a comprehensive strategy, partcularly coming up to Christmas."