Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Homeless Persons.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

687 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the need for homeless facilities to cater for those in need in Tallaght, Dublin 24; his views on whether such services should be available in the town to prevent homeless persons having to travel to the city to access assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1549/03]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Homelessness – An Integrated Strategy, published in May 2000, states "Local Authorities will be responsible for the provision of accommodation, including emergency hostel accommodation for homeless persons and health boards will be responsible for the provision of their in-house care and health needs." The three year action plan for the Dublin region – Shaping the Future – highlights the need to develop responses at local level to avoid people having to travel to the city centre to avail of services.

Homelessness – An Integrated Strategy, also proposed that "Homeless Fora, comprising of representatives of the local authority, health board and the voluntary sector will be established in every county." The South Western Area Health Board is represented on the homeless forum covering the south County Dublin area, and has been actively involved in pushing forward proposals to that forum for the development of local centres that would provide advice, information and referral to accommodation, within that area. In order for these services to be effective, there is a need for the local authority to develop a range of accommodation options at local level, as currently the only accommodation available is in the city centre.

I have been assured by the South Western Area Health Board that as soon as the necessary accommodation services are available, the area health board is ready to put in place a range of locally based support services for homeless people in the area.