Minister Murphy’s statement on December homeless figures

Mr. Eoghan Murphy TD, Minister for Housing, Planning & Local Government, today, (30th January 2019) published his Department’s December Homelessness Report. The report, based on data provided by housing authorities, captures details of individuals accessing State-funded emergency accommodation arrangements that are overseen by housing authorities.

National Figures	December 2018
Adults	6,194
Families	1,617*
Dependants	3,559

*Adults associated with these families are included in the 6,194 figure

a decrease of 215 people nationally
nationally a decrease of 111 families and 252 of their dependents in emergency accommodation
a decrease of 11 families accommodated in hotels in Dublin
increase of 37 adults accessing emergency accommodation, which was expected given the large numbers of new beds introduced for rough sleepers in the Dublin region
for the fifth consecutive month the number of families presenting to homeless services in Dublin, where the challenge of homelessness remains the most difficult, has decreased
70 families were prevented from entering emergency accommodation in Dublin during the month of December
111 families exited emergency accommodation into new homes in Dublin in the month of December

Commenting on the figures, Minister Murphy said, “December saw a reduction of 111 families and 252 of their dependents in emergency accommodation which was to a degree anticipated given the time of year. For the fifth consecutive month, however we have seen a reduction in the numbers of families presenting to homeless services in the Dublin region and a fifth consecutive month where we have seen a reduction in the numbers of families entering emergency accommodation. This is showing us that increased outreach and prevention activity, such as HAP Placefinders, are starting to deliver results. The report does show an increase of 37 adults accessing emergency accommodation, which was expected given the large numbers of new beds introduced for rough sleepers in the Dublin region. These individuals are now receiving the care and support that they need to exit homelessness to an independent tenancy.”

“Following consultations last weekend with MET Éireann concerning this week’s cold weather alerts, I issued instructions to all local authorities to ensure that shelter is available for all those at risk of sleeping rough. Increased outreach activity will encourage those who are rough sleeping to avail of the available shelter. The Dublin Regional Homeless Executive (DRHE) is delivering over 200 additional permanent beds. All of these beds are supported temporary accommodation where single individuals and couples receive the accommodation and health supports that they need. Furthermore, over 150 temporary beds were also introduced as part of the cold weather initiative for the Dublin region. The DRHE has confirmed that there is sufficient bed capacity to provide shelter for all of those who wish to avail of it.”

Download the full December report here.