The Simon Communities of Ireland today launched their Annual Report for 2011 and called for urgent action to address the growing homelessness crisis as rough sleeping increases again in Ireland. 

Changes announced as part of Budget 2013 not only will increase the risk of homelessness for those living on the margins but also means that services will struggle to respond to meet growing need. Simon is extremely concerned that once again those who are most vulnerable in our society will be hit the hardest.

Simon, the national charity for people who are homeless today have launched their pre budget submission urging the Government not to make any further cuts to homeless services across the country.

Today volunteering events will run around the country in recognition of the invaluable contribution of the 2,000 plus volunteers who make help make a difference to the lives of people who are homeless and the work of the Simon Communities.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, TD and fellow TD’s Ciarán Lynch - Labour, Olivia Mitchell – Fine Gael and Mary-Lou McDonald – Sinn Fein have all pledged to take a step for Simon to tackle homelessness in honour of the fifth annual Simon Week which runs until Sunday 7th October.