Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 July 2018
2708. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of family hubs in operation in and outside Dublin, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33839/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra2709. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government the number of families accommodated in family hubs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33840/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 2708 and 2709 together.
My Department’s role in relation to homelessness involves the provision of a national framework of policy, legislation and funding to underpin the role of housing authorities in addressing homelessness at local level. Statutory responsibility in relation to the provision of accommodation and associated services for homeless persons rests with individual housing authorities.
Family hubs offer family living arrangements with a greater level of stability than is possible in hotel accommodation, with the capacity to provide appropriate play space, cooking and laundry facilities, communal recreation space, while move-on options to long-term independent tenancies are identified and secured.
There are currently 21 family hubs in operation, 18 of which are in Dublin, one in Cork, one in Kildare and one in Limerick. Combined, these hubs provide over 500 units of family accommodation.
My Department is working closely with the local authorities on the development of further family hubs. A range of options are being pursued, aimed at introducing at least 400 further units of accommodation for families experiencing homelessness. Families residing in the hubs are supported by the operators of the hubs and the local authorities to exit into independent tenancies.
