Dundalk Simon CEO calls out 'unfairness' of housing system

The CEO of Dublin and Dundalk Simon has highlighted what it says is "the unfairness of a housing system where people live in limbo around the basic human right to security and shelter", following the release today of the latest homeless figures which have shown a huge rise in number of homeless children in the North East region, which comprises Louth, Monaghan and Cavan.

45 families with 100 child dependants accessed emergency accommodation in the North East region in February, as well as 202 adults, giving a total of 302 homeless people in the region. Nationally, 9,671 adults and 4,170 children were recorded as homeless in January, giving a total of 13,841 people, up from 13,531 in January - another record high in the total number of homeless people, as well as a record number of homeless children.

Catherine Kenny, CEO of Dublin and Dundalk Simon, reflecting on the latest statistics stated, “there is no good news here. Behind the numbers are real people, real families, and real children worrying about where they will spend their nights.

"Each statistic represents a life in turmoil, a family facing uncertainty, a child robbed of stability. As the clocks move forward this weekend, spare a thought for those for whom time stands still. 

“At Dublin Simon Community we believe it is our responsibility to shine a light on the unfairness of a housing system where people live in limbo around the basic human right to security and shelter.

"We call upon and will keep calling upon policymakers, community leaders, and the Government to rectify this situation and commit to building a more just and compassionate future for all. Let us harness the spirit of renewal and hope that Spring symbolises to reinvigorate our efforts towards a society where homelessness is not just reduced, but eradicated.”