Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

The Leader does a good job in accommodating requests for debates, with which he is inundated. I make a special appeal to him to arrange a debate on the issue of homelessness. This may not be a headline making issue, but given that the homeless do not have a voice, the Seanad must strive to give them one whenever we have an opportunity to do so. We can only imagine the hopelessness people who do not having a permanent roof over their heads must feel.

In my school days I learned a poem about the old woman of the roads. Senators of a certain age will probably remember it and the desire the old woman expresses for a home of her own. The position of the homeless today is not different. They are helpless in so far as they cannot make a case. On the other hand, I am sure they would all wish to return to a normal way of life. The people who are homeless today are not like the subject of the poem to which I refer, as many have become homeless through no fault of their own. The number of homeless persons is increasing as a result of the recession. They depend on the Simon Community which does a fantastic and heroic job under the radar and without much acknowledgement. It serves as an example to us all through the work it does.

The purpose of the debate, particularly if it was held prior to the budget, would be to highlight that while voluntary bodies do excellent work, they can only do so much. It is important at budget time to identify what assistance, support and resources voluntary bodies working with the homeless require. I am sure Senators will have received a communication from the Simon Community in this regard. It expects Senators to raise the issue of homelessness in the House. I also believe the Government is compassionate. It must seek to prioritise homelessness because although it is not a big issue from the point of view of cost, it is a huge issue from the point of view of the individuals concerned. The homeless include professional people who were not able to meet ends meet.

May we have a debate as soon as possible? I am sure the Leader will give my request serious consideration. We have all walked the streets and seen the hopelessness of these people as they try to live in winter conditions. Is this not a great opportunity for the House to support them? They may never vote and thus we are not looking for votes or any such return but are indicating that we cherish all the citizens of this country equally.