Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 March 2022
321. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the National Homeless Action Committee will meet to consider and make recommendations on whether or not HIQA should be appointed to inspect services for persons that have become homeless including privately run emergency accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14210/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs provided for in Housing for All, the National Homeless Action Committee (NHAC) was established in Q4 2021. The overarching objective of NHAC is to ensure that a renewed emphasis is brought to collaborating across Government to implement actions in Housing for All, along with bringing better coherence and coordination of homeless-related services in delivering policy measures and actions to address homelessness. Meetings of NHAC take place on a quarterly basis and the next meeting is due to take place in April.
At the next meeting of NHAC, the Committee will consider the most appropriate way forward in terms of inspections of services for persons that have become homeless, including privately run emergency accommodation. A decision on this matter will require careful consideration and consultation particularly with the Department of Health, Tusla, local authorities and others involved in this area. I am committed to considering the most appropriate way forward, in partnership with relevant bodies, through NHAC.
