Joe Walsh
Question:197 Mr. J. Walsh asked the Minister for Social Welfare if recent reports of a substantial increase in the number of homeless persons have been brought to his attention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25074/96]
Written Answers. - Homeless Persons.
My colleague, the Minister for the Environment, is responsible for housing policy while my colleague, the Minister for Health, has responsibility for the care of homeless children under the age of 18 years.
It is not clear what reports the Deputy is referring to. According to the September quarter 1996 Housing Statistics Bulletin issued by the Department of the Environment, the number of persons who are homeless has in fact decreased.
The programme, A Government of Renewal proposed that all forms of social housing assistance be administered by local authorities. This matter is being pursued by an interdepartmental committee under the aegis of the Department of the Environment with representatives from the Departments of Health, Social Welfare and Finance. This committee will report to Government in due course.