Friday, December 30, 2016

Homeless figures increase 'not surprising' - campaigners

Figures released by the Department of Housing today show that there were 1,205 families living in emergency accommodation nationally in November – an increase of 27 compared to October. (Stock image)Figures released by the Department of Housing today show that there were 1,205 families living in emergency accommodation nationally in November – an increase of 27 compared to October. 

The crisis shows no signs of abating, with just under 7,000 adults and children now living in emergency accommodation.

The number of homeless families doubled in the northeast of the country from 9 to 18. An increase was also seen in the northwest, where the number increased from 22 to 33.

The number of children living in emergency accommodation also rose in November, now standing at 2,549 - up from 2,470 the previous month.

A spokesperson for homeless activists at Apollo House said that the increase in the numbers of homeless people in November was “not surprising”.

“It’s the tragic reality that there is a housing emergency, but it’s not surprising. It should be, but it’s not,” said Tommy Gavin of the Irish Housing Network.