Time for Action - The rising level of homelessness

Given the Government’s insistence that an improving economy will be good for everyone, it is sobering to reflect on the increasing number of people being forced to live on the streets of our towns and cities.

The evidence from the Simon Communities is shocking: the numbers of those sleeping rough in Cork increased by 134% from August 2013 to August 2014, and, in Galway, there was a 57% increase in people turning to homelessness prevention services.

It is little wonder that a survey shows that one in four people are now worried about the prospect of becoming homeless because of struggles to meet rent or mortgage payments.

Their fears are very real and, ironically, much of the rise in homelessness is a direct result of economic growth as rents are rising due to increased demand and inadequate housing supply.

Later this month, the Simon Communities will launch a campaign calling on the Government address the crisis and ensure that Ireland meets its target of ending long term homelessness by 2016. It is essential that the Government listens to them.