Homelessness in Ireland Surpasses 17,000 for the First Time

Dublin: The number of people experiencing homelessness in Ireland has exceeded 17,000 for the first time, marking a historic and deeply concerning milestone. According to the latest figures released by the Department of Housing, 17,112 individuals were relying on Emergency Accommodation in January alone — a 2.3 per cent increase compared with December.

The data highlights a worsening housing crisis, with sharp rises recorded across families and children.

Families and Children Most Affected

In January, 2,555 families were recorded as homeless, representing a 3.1 per cent increase on the previous month. The number of children living in emergency accommodation rose to 5,319 — a significant 15.6 per cent increase compared with January last year.

On an annual basis, the scale of the increase is striking. At the same time last year, 15,286 individuals were homeless. Within one year, the number of homeless families has risen by more than 18 per cent, underlining the intensifying pressure on Ireland’s housing system.

Political Debate Intensifies

Tánaiste Simon Harris acknowledged that the rising figures are a matter of serious concern. However, he argued that opposition to housing developments at the local level has contributed significantly to the crisis.

“Everyone talks about the housing emergency, but too often they oppose building homes in their own constituencies,” Harris said, suggesting that political resistance to new developments is hindering supply.

Opposition parties, including Sinn Féin and the Social Democrats, rejected that assessment and instead blamed government policy failures. They warned that recent rental reforms could result in higher rents and potentially push more people into homelessness.

Charities Call for Urgent Action

Homelessness charities reacted with alarm to the latest figures. Focus Ireland described the 17,000 mark as “shameful,” with CEO Pat Dennigan calling the situation heartbreaking, particularly for children.

“The fact that thousands of children are growing up without a permanent home is a humanitarian crisis that demands urgent policy change,” he said.

Dublin Simon Community also pointed to instability in the rental market as a key driver of homelessness. Concerns remain that further regulatory changes could deepen uncertainty and exacerbate the crisis.

As the numbers continue to climb, pressure is mounting on the government to deliver sustainable housing solutions, while advocacy groups warn that without decisive intervention, the situation may deteriorate further in the months ahead.