Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)

It is a pity the Minister cannot find it in himself to consider the points included in this amendment. I still do not understand the reluctance to enhance the existing definition by accepting the definition of a homeless person. The definition as presented is adequate and this is an important issue. I welcome the practical actions being taken by the Department and local authorities in addressing homelessness. I hope the figures for those sleeping rough announced by the Minister are borne out over the next number of months. It might be anecdotal, but from what I have seen there seems to have been an increase. However, it may just be that there is a greater concentration in certain areas.

This era of recession is a challenge to everyone but particularly to those who are most vulnerable in our society. We should ensure we put in place the necessary protections for people who end up homeless and ensure that they have priority service from the local housing authority.

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