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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 14 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 4

Written Answers. - Homeless Persons.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

237 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the measures he will introduce to tackle homelessness in light of the Simon Community view that the deal for 10,000 affordable houses will have no direct impact on homelessness. [13114/03]

A wide range of additional accommodation, ranging from emergency night shelter to long-term sheltered accommodation to enable homeless persons move out of emergency accommodation into accommodation that is more suitable to their needs has already been provided and more will be provided in future years as part of the full implementation of the action plans.

Substantial additional funding has been made available as part of the strategy for the homeless. Capital funding from my Department for the direct provision by local authorities of accommodation for homeless persons is being doubled from €25.4 million to €50.8 million over the period 2001-2005. Recoupment by my Department of current expenditure on services for the home less by local authorities has increased significantly from €12.6 million in 1999 to an expected €50 million this year. These increases are clear evidence of the Government's determination to address the issue of homelessness in a comprehensive and co-ordinated way.
The prevention of homelessness is also being addressed. The main aim of the homelessness preventative strategy is to ensure that no one is released from any type of state care without the appropriate measures in place to ensure that they have a suitable place to live with the necessary supports. This strategy was prepared under the auspices of the cross departmental team on homelessness and contains measures to prevent homelessness among adult offenders, young offenders, those leaving mental health facilities and acute hospitals, and young people leaving care. The implementation of both the integrated and preventative strategies is being monitored by the cross Department team on homelessness with a view to identifying and addressing any obstacles to progress.
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