Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 March 2011
98 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons accommodated in each of the past 12 months in a centre (details supplied) in Dublin 1; the reason a decision has been taken to close down the homeless centre; where the homeless users will now be housed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6133/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department does not hold the information requested in relation to the numbers accommodated on a monthly basis at the centre in question. Statutory responsibility for addressing the accommodation needs in relation to the provision of accommodation for homeless persons rests with the housing authorities and decisions relating to particular services funded by them are matters for the relevant housing authorities in the first instance. My Department has put in place the policy, legislation and funding to underpin this role at local level.
The homeless centre in question was reviewed by agreement with the Salvation Army, as part of the reconfiguration of all homeless services in Dublin. The closure of this facility was agreed as it is not fit for purpose and I understand that suitable alternative accommodation has been provided for those who were longer term residents at the centre. Homeless people who were accommodated at the centre on a nightly emergency basis, through the Dublin night bus service, will continue to be provided with alternative emergency accommodation.
The homeless services reconfiguration process is essential in order to move away from an outdated emergency hostel-based approach, where people have remained for long periods, damaging their self esteem and reducing their prospects of progressing to full independent living. I am determined to tackle homelessness in a more planned and strategic way by adopting a housing first approach and providing long term solutions rather than just managing homelessness. This model of service delivery means a reduction in the amount of temporary accommodation and a move to suitable housing tenancies rather than meeting long term needs through homeless accommodation centres.
