Dáil debates
Thursday, 21 September 2023
Ceisteanna ar Pholasaí nó ar Reachtaíocht - Questions on Policy or Legislation
12:40 pm
Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source
I will ask about conditions in privately run homeless emergency accommodation. On 2 August, a woman named Mairéad was physically assaulted by a member of staff in a privately run hostel for homeless people. While this hostel is run by a private company, it is funded with public money. The incident was recorded on video, which clearly shows the male staff member telling Mairéad that she is a piece of junk before threatening to hit and crush her. This staff member then hits Mairéad and forcefully knocks her to the ground. What action is the Minister taking on foot of this assault to ensure that vulnerable homeless people are safe when staying in privately run homeless emergency accommodation? What follow-up support has been given to Mairéad since this assault? Why was she left sleeping on the streets for several weeks after this assault?
No comments