Homeless crisis “shows no signs of slowing down” says Dublin Simon Community

Latest figures released today by the Department of Housing reveal record numbers of people in emergency accommodation, with 14,486 nationally and 10,481 in Dublin, marking a 13% year-on-year increase in Dublin.

The total for Dublin includes 1,467 families, 3,273 children, and 4,664 single adults. These figures, however, do not account for those rough sleeping, individuals in domestic violence shelters, refugees, or asylum seekers on our streets.

“We wonder if those without a home will really be any better off after Budget Day. Promised electricity or rent relief won’t make a difference to these people without a key to their own front door”, says Catherine Kenny, CEO of Dublin Simon Community, expressing deep concern over the lack of concrete action ahead of Budget 2025.

“Despite a slight decrease in Dublin over the last month, these figures over the last number of years, show no sign of slowing down, and with winter approaching, things will only get worse.”

“The truth is that people experiencing homelessness don’t have a line of sight towards a home. If we don’t see real investment in preventative measures, increased funding for homeless services, and clear directives to prioritise social housing for the long-term vulnerable, this crisis will continue to spiral,” she said.

Kenny added: “Dublin Simon Community is at the forefront of the homelessness crisis, taking care of thousands of people every day and night, through our different teams—emergency accommodation, street outreach, and treatment services. It is gruelling work, and it is deeply disappointing to see that despite all our efforts, the numbers are only increasing every month, with no meaningful change in sight.”

“With only 65 single adults on average exiting homelessness into permanent housing each month in Dublin, against a monthly average of 177 entering homelessness for the first time, it is evident that we’re not addressing the root causes of the issue. The August figures mark the end of a summer period where homeless numbers typically are on a low trajectory. Considering seasonal statistics, we expect a sharp steady and alarming increase in these figures as the weather changes.  Without a serious commitment in Budget 2025, this situation will once again play out unchecked over the winter season.”

The latest homelessness figures show the tragic consequences of 13 years of Fine Gael-led governments, according to Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan.

“Earlier this week, the Taoiseach attempted to distract the public from his party’s catastrophic record on housing by playing the issues of homelessness and migration against one another,” he commented.

“His feeble attempt to backtrack by stating that it’s nobody’s fault is nothing short of farcical; there is plenty of blame to go around for this disaster and none of it rests at the feet of refugees.”

“Fine Gael have been in office for 13 years. In that time, homelessness has risen from 3,808 to 14,486,” he noted.

“If the Taoiseach is struggling to see who is to blame, he could start by taking a look at his own party.

“His pathetic diversion tactics are not fooling anybody.”

Labour leader Ivana Bacik said

Deputy Bacik said “under this Government’s much-trumpeted ‘Housing for All’ plan, we have seen record levels of homelessness, with rents up 27% and house prices increasing by a quarter over the last three years. The plan is a complete failure by every measure, and this Government has thrown in the towel.”

“Too many young people have lost all hope of ever owning their own home. Many are stuck living in their childhood bedrooms, unable to afford the sky-high rent prices that have become the norm in our communities. The Government’s housing policy is failing an entire generation.

The figures released today further highlight the extent of the housing crisis. Bacik stated that Labour’s alternative budget includes radical and realistic plans to address the crisis and bring hope back to those suffering under the current system.

“Labour has a clear plan for building better, together. We would introduce stronger protections for renters and invest in building the public housing we so desperately need. Our plan is about building homes that people can afford, homes for families, for young people, and for the future.

“This Government has had years to act and has failed at every turn. The housing crisis has worsened under their watch, with the most vulnerable in our society paying the price. We need a new Government with the will and the vision to address housing for everyone in emergency accommodation – but especially for the 4,419 children who deserve so much better.

“We cannot continue the current trajectory. This Government has proven itself incapable of tackling this crisis. We need a change of Government, one that will put the protection of renters and the provision of affordable, accessible housing at the heart of its programme. The time for empty promises is over. Labour has the plan and the political will to end homelessness and to finally give renters the security they need.”