28th February 2025
The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage has released its latest report, showing that the number of men, women, and children experiencing homelessness reached 15,286 in January 2025. This represents an increase of 422 people compared to the previous month. 4,603 of these are children.
In the 12 months since January 2024, the data shows an increase of 1,755 people (13%) in emergency accommodation:
- 2,164 were families, marking a 11.5% (224) increase over the year
- 4,603 were children, showing a 14.3% (576) rise in the same period.
- 1,798 were 18-24 year olds, marking a 12.9% (206) increase over the year.
Ber Grogan, Executive Director of the Simon Communities of Ireland, said:
“The alarming rise in homelessness is a glaring indictment of our failure to implement effective prevention strategies. These individuals, children, and families are trapped in a crisis with no end in sight.
We have written to An Taoiseach requesting an urgent meeting in light of growing uncertainty around Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs). Speculation about their potential removal is fueling anxiety among those already in precarious housing situations.
As outlined in our General Election Manifesto, we have proposed concrete measures to enhance security in the private rental sector. Recent studies by the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) demonstrate that RPZs have had a stabilising effect in certain areas, and data confirms that the number of landlords is rising, not falling.
These facts must inform any policy decisions moving forward. We cannot continue to watch families slip into homelessness while thousands remain stuck in emergency accommodation. We need decisive action in terms of stronger prevention policies, immediate housing support, and long-term solutions, to break this cycle and ensure people can secure permanent homes.”
ENDS
For further information contact Robyn Keleghan 085 800 1275 / communications@simoncommunity.com
