Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I agree with Deputy O'Sullivan that it is a serious issue. The need to continue to have in place abstinence-based facilities and programmes for people exiting drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres is acknowledged. Dublin City Council is working in partnership with the HSE and the non-governmental service providers to increase the quantum of units required for abstinence-based residential facilities. It is expected that approximately 50 units will be brought on stream early next year. Part of the work required is to develop protocols for the discharge of people that are exciting residential treatment to ensure a homeless prevention approach is taken. However there is, and will continue to be, abstinence-based homeless accommodation provided in the region. If Deputy O'Sullivan has any further information on how we can assist people further, in addition to the 50 units we have provided for early next year, I would be pleased to speak to her about the individual circumstances she has outlined.

See this speech in context