Homelessness figures rise again: Ideology at root of housing crisis

Ireland has had four housing ministers since March 2011. Only Phil Hogan served more than three years in the position. Simon Coveney was responsible for just 13 months. These musical chairs have not stemmed the rise of homelessness. The latest report from the Department of Housing shows that the number of people without a home continues to rise. Figures show that 10,338 people need emergency accommodation but some NGOs suggest it may be higher. Outside of Dublin, the South-West region, including Cork, recorded this highest number of homeless people at 583.

The Dublin accommodation provider Depaul yesterday reported a 18% drop in the number of people able to leave its services last year and that it helped 881 children last year, an increase of 13% on the previous year.