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

Homelessness causes trauma. It uproots families from their communities, friends and support networks. All of us in this House, whether in opposition or in government, have a responsibility to work together to try to tackle homelessness. This is a very practical Bill which puts the focus exactly where it should be: on preventing homelessness. Whatever we can do to tackle homelessness is very worthwhile. It is highly beneficial to prevent the trauma of homelessness in the first place. There is cross-party support on the Opposition benches. I appeal to the Government parties to support the Bill and ensure that it progresses quickly through the Oireachtas. It needs to be implemented as quickly as possible and worked on urgently so that we can make headway in reducing the number of people becoming homeless.

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