Fast removal can not gloss over issue

Instead of engaging in a cynical, cosmetic exercise of having the homeless people removed from Dublin’s streets in advance of our EU presidency next January, the Government should adopt a more sincere and effective policy on poverty.

The Garda Síochána claims there has been no change in policy and the Department of Justice refuses to comment but the Simon Community and Focus Ireland claim a more ruthless attitude is being taken towards the homeless community.

Both those organisations are acutely aware of the plight of homeless people.