The housing crisis and issue of homelessness need to be addressed immediately

THERE are currently 5,000 men, women and children in emergency accommodation nationally, a figure that is both an indictment of the failed housing policies of successive governments and a call to action to end the homeless crisis once and for all.

Environment Minister Alan Kelly hosted a Homeless Summit on Monday which was attended by representatives of the Simon Communities and Focus Ireland as well as other charities and NGOs.

The purpose was to discuss winter preparations, hear the views of those who see the reality of homelessness every day and to outline the minister’s direction to local authorities to prioritise tenancies for vulnerable households.