30th Janurary 2026
The latest figures from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage show 16,734 men, women and children were living in emergency accommodation in December 2025. This is a decrease of 262 people since November 2025.
The Simon Communities of Ireland have said that while any reduction in homelessness is welcome, it must be sustained, continuous and on a larger scale. There are serious concerns that numbers are set to rise again in the coming months.
Over the 12 months since December 2024, the data shows an overall increase of 1,870 people (12.6%) living in emergency accommodation. This includes:
- 6,963 were men, marking a 9.3% (591) increase over the year.
- 4,583 were women, marking a 15.1% (601) increase over the year.
- 5,188 were children, showing a 15.0% (678) rise in the same period.
- 270 were over 65 year olds, marking a 17.9% (41) increase over the year.
Ber Grogan, Executive Director of the Simon Communities of Ireland, said:
Each year, there is typically a reduction in the number of people experiencing homelessness in December due to the Christmas period. Lower figures at this time often reflect people being temporarily offered respite by friends or family.
However, these arrangements are rarely sustainable, and the Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2026 still has to go through the legislative process. As a result, we expect the numbers of those living in homelessness to rise again month on month in 2026, unless urgent action is taken to address this growing crisis.
Government must act decisively on the Housing Plan and on affordability. The Residential Tenancies Bill presents a real opportunity to improve affordability and strengthen security of tenure, but amendments will be required.
We need to see real, lasting legal rights that ensures every person can experience the dignity, security, and hope they all deserve all year round.
ENDS
For further information contact Aileen Gaskin 087 7724 717 / communications@simoncommunity.com
