An assessment of the numbers of homeless people was carried out by local authorities in March 1996 in conjunction with their assessment of housing needs. It showed a total of 2,501 homeless people, mainly men, but including some women and other family members. The needs of homeless children are the responsibility of the Minister for Health and Children.
Three assessments of homelessness have taken place and the next one is due in March 1999. I am satisfied that the figures disclosed by the assessments reflect the general level of homelessness at the time of the assessments. In the preparation of the guidelines, etc., for local authorities for the next assessment of housing need, I will be considering the scope there may be to improve the reliability of the assessments in relation to homelessness and, in particular, whether there is a need for a separate more detailed assessment for the Dublin area where the incidence of homelessness is greatest.
Local authorities have a wide range of powers to enable them to provide an effective response to the accommodation needs of homeless persons. The maintenance of the local authority housing programme at a high and consistent level in recent years benefits the homeless in common with other housing needs. A substantial part of the accommodation provided under the voluntary housing schemes, administered by local authorities, has been for homeless persons. The terms and conditions of the schemes were recently significantly improved and they will continue to play an important part in meeting housing needs, including those of homeless people.