Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 4 Feb 2003

Vol. 560 No. 3

Written Answers. - Homelessness Study.

Joe Costello

Question:

156 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government his views on the findings of the joint study undertaken by the Homeless Agency and the ESRI on the number of homeless people in the Dublin area; the steps being taken to deal with the serious problem of homelessness identified in the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2372/03]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

According to Counted In, 2002, the joint Homeless Agency/ESRI study undertaken in March 2002, 2,560 households were reported as homeless in the Dublin area. This figure includes people in a range of homeless accommodation, including bed and breakfast and hostel accommodation, as well as people who reported that they were sleeping rough.

As part of the Dublin action plan being implemented by the Homeless Agency, significant progress has been made in tackling homelessness. A range of new services, in relation to both emergency, transitional and long-term accommodation has been provided and settlement services have been developed to assist people out of homelessness.

In relation to the very visible form of homeless, which is people sleeping rough, a number of initiatives have already been undertaken. Outreach services to assist people on the streets have been developed and accommodation aimed specifically at rough sleepers has been provided. Accommodation for homeless young drug users opened in the city centre in late 2001 and a low threshold shelter aimed at those with alcohol addictions opened in late 2002. In addition, Dublin City Council operates a late night bus service to take people who are sleeping on the streets to available accommodation. Plans are also well advanced for long-term supported housing for street drinkers which should open later this year.

Question No. 157 answered with Question No. 133.