Peter McVerry Trust statement on September 2022 homeless figures

The national housing and homeless charity, Peter McVerry Trust, is disappointed with today’s homeless figures but said that the upcoming eviction ban – which is due to be signed into law by the President in the coming days – will help to stem the flow of people entering homelessness in Ireland.

The September figures, released this afternoon by the Department of Housing, show that 10,975 people were homeless.

Pat Doyle, CEO of Peter McVerry Trust, “The figures released today are disappointing, it’s not the direction we want to see them going. The eviction ban, which we proposed to the Minister for Housing in September, was recently passed by the Dáil and will be signed into law in the coming days. This is a vital part of tackling the problem and will allow the homeless sector time to address rising homeless numbers.”

“A no-fault eviction ban will keep vulnerable tenants in their homes during the coldest months of the year whilst also protecting landlords from anti-social behaviour.”

“With winter starting next week, it is critical that those who are experiencing homelessness are supported and encouraged to engage with services. We will be working with our partners to provide extra emergency beds for those who need them during this period. Our staff will work with anyone availing of the beds to provide the support they need to leave homelessness behind for good.”