Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for that comprehensive reply. I will reflect on it and perhaps come back to the Department later. The reply has confirmed that we have 2,344 children who are homeless. That is too many. I know the Minister of State knows that. It is desperate that 2,344 of our children are in emergency accommodation. It goes back to the long-term plan and the strategies being worked on, and I acknowledge and accept that. However, we have to be continually vigilant and ensure the protection and safety of these children this very night, not in six months' time. I say that as someone who has been in contact with these agencies and who was a member of the joint committee on housing. No more reports, no more inquiries and no more discussions about the death and cruelty faced by our children. In Ireland, where the State has a responsibility, we see that these children are exposed, are experiencing homeless, are vulnerable and need our supports.

I thank the Minister of State for coming to the House and going through this report from his Department. I appreciate it.