asked the Minister for Health who is responsible for the provision of services, principally accommodation, for single homeless people; the services that are presently provided; if he envisages any changes in either the services provided or the legislation under which they are provided; and, if so, the nature of such changes.
Written Answers. - Homeless People.
437.
Health boards are required under section 54 of the Health Act, 1953, to provide such institutional assistance to persons who are unable to provide shelter and maintenance for themselves or their dependants, as appears to the board to be necessary or proper in each particular case. Accommodation can be provided in health board homes or similar institutions, or institutions such as hostels which are financially assisted by health boards.
Under section 12 of the Housing Act, 1966, housing authorities can make financial assistance available to voluntary housing organisations which provide accommodation for needy persons including those who are homeless. Single homeless people can avail themselves of such health and social services benefits provided by the health boards and the Department of Social Welfare, as may be appropriate to their need or entitlement. I do not envisage any specific change in either the services available or the legislation regarding institutional assistance in the near future.