Further Instability:
Homelessness Left Behind in Housing Measures
New rental rules strike like an arrow of apprehension; homelessness remains firmly outside the Government’s agenda with today’s rising numbers.
Dundalk, 27th June 2025: As the number of people in emergency accommodation continues to climb, Dundalk Simon Community is sounding the alarm on continued instability in the housing and homeless sector, with concrete solutions absent from the heart of government housing policy. While the efficacy of recent reforms in the rental market remains unclear, there is doubt as to whether the Government cares about addressing the instability, harsh and immediate realities of today’s homeless figures.
The Department of Housing’s latest report reveals 324 people in emergency accommodation in the North-East region, equating to 51 families, 107 children and 145 single adults across counties Louth, Cavan and Monaghan.
“A housing crisis may be on the political agenda, but its most devastating consequence — homelessness — remains overlooked. I have observed over the past two weeks: from renters, fear and apprehension and for small landlords, uncertainty and hesitation. Institutional investors will further wait and see what a housing plan and Budget 2026 will incentivise. But for people experiencing homelessness? Nothing. No change, no relief, as yet, no pathway forward,” said Catherine Kenny, CEO of Dundalk Simon Community.
“In light of today’s numbers, stability must be at the forefront in addressing the chaotic housing market with chronic shortages. All eyes are now focused on a housing plan and Budget 2026 as to what it will provide as incentives to kickstart a greater housing supply in a market that has plateaued. As the new rental rules will do little to help those stuck in emergency accommodation, the next national housing plan, due in a few weeks, must bring meaningful measures for those who are experiencing homelessness.”
The charity calls on the Taoiseach and all political leaders to bring stability to an unstable market for those in precarious rental agreements and those with nowhere to call home.
Latest figures
The latest data from the Department of Housing confirms 15,747 individuals now in emergency accommodation nationwide.
“We believe that as a homeless and housing charity, we can do even more with the Government’s support. Treatment beds, long-term supported accommodation, and building of more one-bed and two-bed homes — these are the foundations we need to provide for real exits from homelessness,” Kenny added.
Dundalk Simon Asks of Government:
- Prioritise social and affordable housing supply: Increase supply until it reaches at least 20% of the national housing stock, with a minimum of 20% of allocations reserved for people experiencing long-term homelessness, sized appropriately to their needs.
- Resource the AHB sector adequately: Recognise that Local Authorities and AHBs deliver 75% of homes for those exiting homelessness. Fund both large development-focused AHBs and smaller, niche providers to ensure diversity, quality, and volume.
- Reform capital funding models: Review and update the guidelines for capital funding models for the provision of social housing by AHBs.
- Expedite planning processes: Remove red tape slowing down the delivery of vital social housing projects.
