September figures show 5,238 children among those without permanent housing
Ireland’s homelessness crisis has reached a new record high, with 16,614 people living in emergency accommodation at the end of September, including 5,238 children, according to new figures from the Department of Housing.
The September data shows 11,376 adults and 2,443 families were housed in emergency facilities, marking yet another increase in the country’s ongoing housing emergency.
The figures represent a rise from August, when 16,353 people were in emergency accommodation, including 5,145 children. The month-on-month increase of 261 people—including 93 additional children—continues the upward trajectory that has characterized Ireland’s homelessness statistics in recent years.
The persistent growth in homelessness numbers, particularly among families with children, underscores the severity of Ireland’s housing crisis despite government pledges to address the issue. Emergency accommodation includes hotels, B&Bs, family hubs, and other temporary facilities that lack the stability and security of permanent housing.
Child homelessness remains a particular concern for advocacy groups, who warn of the long-term impacts on education, health, and development. The 5,238 children currently homeless represents a significant portion of the total, highlighting how the housing crisis disproportionately affects families.
The record figures come amid ongoing debates about Ireland’s housing policy, with opposition parties and advocacy organizations calling for more aggressive intervention to increase social housing supply and provide pathways out of emergency accommodation.
The government faces mounting pressure to accelerate housing construction and implement measures to prevent further increases in homelessness as winter approaches.