Homeless figures increase by 20% in 12 months, new report shows

Figures released by the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive on Friday show that homelessness in Dublin has jumped over 20 percent in 12 months.

According to the recent report, the largest increase in homeless figures occurred since the last report was issued in September.

The report makes for “shocking reading,” says Sinn Fein councillor and housing spokesperson Daithí Doolan.

“This Government are failing on every front. The Government’s housing plan has been a total disaster,” he said.

“There are now more children homeless, more families homeless and more single people homeless than ever before.

“There is no hiding from it. Today’s report proves beyond any doubt this is the worst housing crisis since the foundation of the State.”

Overall, there are 8,087 people homeless in Dublin according to the report and 171 more households in emergency accommodation when compared to the previous month.

“The Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien should hang his head in shame,” Doolan says.

“His policies are having a hugely negative impact on the thousands of people homeless in Dublin.

“Each of the 8,087 is a person being traumatised and disadvantaged by his failed housing policy.

“Greater funding needs to be released urgently to local authorities to build social housing, red tape needs to be slashed, rent control in the private rented sector needs to be introduced and a long term ban on evictions.”