COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, December 14, 2020

QUESTION NO. 1

QUESTION: Councillor Carly Bailey

To ask the Chief Executive whether there are plans to set up a local level homelessness action team in the near future and to make a statement on the matter.

REPLY:

There is a considerable existing framework of forums and supports to address homelessness in the County.  An existing South Dublin Homeless Forum, comprising staff from the Council as well representatives from partner agencies in homeless services, HSE and Approved Housing Bodies, works together to respond to local needs and gaps in homeless services, resources and client progression.  This involves a strong focus on prevention, accessing accommodation and support to maintain tenancies (all tenure types) and a commitment to build upon interagency work to best support homeless persons.  Agencies have continued to engage on these issues throughout 2020 while also responding to Covid-related issues as they relate to homeless persons and homeless services.  This is supplemented by the ongoing work of our homeless team together with the DRHE and service providers to address, support and resolve individual cases.

In addition, senior staff from the Housing Department participate on the Dublin Joint Homelessness Consultative Forum and associated Homeless Statutory Management Group that oversee the implementation of Dublin Regional Homeless Action Plan 2019-2021 and annual work plans under the Action Plan focusing on prevention, protection and progression in relation to homelessness.