WATCH: Minister for Housing reacts to Louth's homeless figures
There were 166 people in emergency accommodation in Louth
Minister for Housing James Browne has reacted to Louth's latest homeless figures which showed 166 people were accessing emergency accommodation.
Speaking to the Dundalk Democrat, Minister Browne said he was "very acutely aware" of the numbers in Louth.
‘I’m very acutely aware that Louth in particular does have quite high homeless numbers within the region, but one person being homeless is one too many," he said.
He said his department alongside homeless organisations are engaging with Louth County Council.
“I met with the Director of housing from Louth [County Council] in Monaghan only a couple of weeks ago with the Simon Community to see how we can tackle that homeless situation here in County Louth.”
“Obviously the key is building more homes and getting people into those homes so they can be safe and secure.”
“But while we’re waiting for those homes to be built, how can we ensure they are prevented from becoming homeless to begin with but exit as quickly as possible, and are safe while they are in emergency accommodation as well”
Minister Browne was speaking at the opening of a new 93 unit housing estate in Dundalk, which includes 50 social housing units.
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