Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I propose an adjournment of the Seanad on a specific and important matter of public interest which has arisen suddenly in recent days. The matter is that Seanad Éireann would call on the Minister for Health and-or the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to give top priority accommodation status to women who find themselves pregnant and homeless in order that the relevant agencies can provide them with immediate supportive accommodation; ensure an immediate and appropriate supportive accommodation response for the 17 women who find themselves homeless and pregnant in Dublin at this time; and ensure such accommodation would be stable and fit for purpose when their babies arrive. I draw particular attention to the urgency surrounding one homeless young woman who is 22 years old and due to give birth within the next few days. I thank the House for considering this under Standing Order 30 as a matter of public interest which has arisen suddenly. It is the first time I have called for such a motion under this provision. I appreciate Senators' support. Please God, these young women will have had their babies by the time we come back from the summer recess. They need accommodation. They do not need to be thrown out at 9 a.m. every day.