Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)

I agree we must do all we can on homelessness. This was one of the priorities I outlined when I was appointed to my position of Minister of State with responsibility for housing. A substantial sum, €50 million, has been allocated to the issue, in addition to the funding provided by local authorities. We have to ensure it is spent in a way that provides homes, which is the best response to homelessness. That will necessitate supporting vulnerable people in their homes in many cases because they will not always be able to survive on their own. Some of the voluntary associations and statutory bodies have been strong at providing that kind of support and the strategy for Dublin is focused on the best use of resources.

All of us want to end homelessness at the earliest opportunity but I do not think funding is the problem. Some people need a lot of support in terms of being provided with secure homes and we have to focus our policies on that.

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