Additional emergency measures for homeless needed ahead of sub-zero cold snap
- Additional funding needed for emergency accommodation in Limerick
Labour Limerick City TD Conor Sheehan has urged the implementation of emergency measures to protect anyone living in homelessness ahead of the cold snap.
Deputy Sheehan said:
“Minister O’Brien needs to detail his plans to protect the thousands of people living in homelessness as we face into a cold snap.
“With sub zero temperatures and the potential for snow this week, I have a real concern for people living in homelessness, or staying in tents across Limerick City.
“There is a real risk that we could see someone seriously injured or worse should they be forced to sleep outdoors during such cold weather.
“Reports this morning that homeless people have been turned away from accommodation is of grave concern. Charities cannot constantly be left to pick up the pieces from failed Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael policies. Minister O’Brien needs to let us know: what happens to the people who are presenting for help who are being turned away?
“As a Councillor, I consistently flagged the need for additional funding for emergency accommodation in Limerick to keep pace with the demand as we see more and more people enter homelessness.
“While not a panacea, this is the very reason I have long campaigned for a night cafe that could provide a warm and safe solution for weather events like this. Keeping people in a warm and sheltered environment should be a bare minimum expectation.
“Due to the way in which the Limerick homeless action team report on figures, we don’t even know the full scale of the demand. No one should be living in homelessness. But we need to have a plan in place particularly at such a precarious time.”