Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing Eoin Ó Broin TD, speaking during Leaders’ Questions in the Dáil today, has called on the government to urgently implement an emergency response to the growing crisis of deaths among those experiencing homelessness.

Teachta Ó Broin said:

“Yesterday, we learnt of two more tragic deaths in our capital city.

“Two men, one living in a tent in the shadow of Leinster House was found dead and another man died in accommodation run by a charity.

“We don’t yet know the full circumstances of both tragic deaths, but it appears they were both homeless.

“These latest tragic deaths bring the number of reported deaths of people accessing homeless services in this city to 52 so far this year.

“This is a significant increase in the number of deaths of people sleeping rough and in emergency accommodation compared to last year.

“The Minister for Housing has announced a review of the dramatic rise in deaths this year, this is welcome but is it enough?

“We need to see an emergency response put in place. The supports for those experiencing long term homelessness must be increased.

“This response must also include increased funding for mental health and addiction supports, an end to dorm style emergency accommodation, a dramatic increase in Housing First tenancies, and Adult Safeguarding Reviews to ensure we learn the lessons of past mistakes.”