New record as number of homeless people in Ireland reaches 14,760

These numbers mark a 1.9% increase on the previous month, where a total of 14,486 people were homeless

The number of people living in emergency accommodation reached a record of 14,760 in September, according to the latest figures from the Department of Housing.

The figures include 10,199 adults and 4,561 children.

These numbers mark a 1.9% increase on the previous month, where a total of 14,486 people were homeless.

Dublin Simon Community CEO Catherine Kenny said the "lack of an integrated response by the Government is one of, if not the, key issue with today’s record numbers". 

"Since the Dáil was last dissolved in 2020, homelessness has increased by 41%."

Ms Kenny said the homelessness issue needs to be the "highest priority in national and local Government" in order to determine a solution.

Wayne Stanley, executive director of the Simon Communities of Ireland, said that these could be the last figures released before a general election is called.

“It is often noted, but worth restating, that behind these figures are men, women and children who are suffering the trauma of homelessness – many for far too long.

“This is because of the failure of our housing system and successive governments in addressing it effectively.

“These will likely be the last figures released before a general election is called. If we are to turn the corner on homelessness, the next government has to take a proactive approach, and they have to be ambitious and genuinely committed to working toward ending homelessness by 2030.”