Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

Not agreed. On Monday on national radio, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage stated that no one has been turned away from emergency accommodation. This is not the case. I have asked for time to be set aside to debate the issue of homelessness in the Chamber. The Chief Whip has indicated that this can be done. I seek time to discuss this as a matter of urgency because people slept rough in tents and doorways last night and will do so again tonight and on an ongoing basis. These people are being refused access to emergency accommodation. This matter needs to be addressed. There seems to be confusion in government in respect of this matter, particularly on the basis of the comments made by the Minister and the Tánaiste. I ask for time to be set aside for a debate.

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