Mr. Tom McHugh:

I can discuss how we deal with family welfare in the Dún Laoghaire context. We do not simply put people on a list, and part of our function is to provide assistance and advice. We do this in partnership with a number of agencies, especially Focus Ireland and Threshold. One of our most important functions is trying to advise people about their housing position. There is a robust and detailed assessment and placement service for families facing homelessness, and we also have a dedicated and specialised welfare section, which would have the welfare of applicants and their families to the fore. It is very difficult for both staff and families but we try to do our best in offering advice and looking to place people in the best accommodation available.