A tendency by officials and politicians to react to tragic events, rather than take pre-emptive action, cannot be tolerated where the plight of the growing number of men and women sleeping rough in our streets is concerned. As winter closes in and temperatures drop, the likelihood of vulnerable, homeless individuals dying of hypothermia increases. The developing crisis in Dublin and elsewhere represents an affront to civilised society. An emergency response is required.
The four Dublin local authorities have drafted an action plan in response to the growing incidence of homelessness. But it is not scheduled for adoption until next year and implementation may come too late. It is a difficult situation at a time of financial cutbacks. But the implications of delay are so potentially awful that the Government should step in and provide whatever funding is required.
Within the past year there has been a dramatic increase, not just in the number of people sleeping rough, but in the demand for emergency accommodation. Half of the 4,837 people who sought emergency accommodation in Dublin this year were first time applicants, while the number of persons sleeping rough rose from 97 to 305. The trend reflects continuing high unemployment, welfare cutbacks and inadequate provision for social housing.
In 2008, following public pressure, the Department of the Environment, Dublin local authorities and the Health Service Executive responded to the needs of the homeless by providing additional accommodation and support services. The numbers affected fell from 100 to 60, but it has now rebounded. Homelessness is a complex problem. Many of those sleeping in alleyways and doorways are young, have mental health problems or engage in drug and alcohol abuse. Others are immigrants who have lost their jobs, their homes and their self-confidence. Some are so traumatised they will not even communicate with voluntary service providers. All of them need help in a plan that provides lasting solutions.