COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

South Dublin County Council Crest

MEETING OF CLONDALKIN AREA COMMITTEE

Wednesday, January 19, 2022

QUESTION NO. 13

QUESTION: Councillor F. Timmons

"To ask the Chief Executive to issue a report in what progress has been made in providing emergency accommodation (Homeless) as requested by several pass motions in the Clondalkin Area? Also to outline what attempts have been made over the last few years?"

REPLY:

South Dublin County Council is committed to delivering better outcomes for our homeless population within the County. To this end the Council is constantly examining the feasibility, as well as funding options, for additional emergency accommodation throughout the County.  A number of sites were examined, together with the DRHE, recently. These sites were commercial units, one of which was based in Clondalkin, however they did not progress due to a variety of reasons.  The Council will, however, together with its partners continue to look at properties that may be used for emergency accommodation and have specifically identified Clondalkin as an area requiring emergency accommodation. 

The Council operates an outreach service and multi-agency approach to address rough sleepers across the County.  The Outreach worker works closely with the HSE in particular in identifying rough sleepers and sourcing appropriate accommodation and support services. The needs of rough sleepers are often very complex and challenging and require a comprehensive and coordinated approach.

SDCC provides hostel type accommodation in our own administrative area and elsewhere through the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive Central Placement Services, and at present there is sufficient capacity in the system for any rough sleeper to be referred to emergency accommodation.

The Council is also committed to the Housing First programme which aims to provide a person sleeping rough, or someone who has been long-term homeless, with their own secure accommodation as well as access to intensive and specialised support services.

If Councillors are aware of any available premises which may be considered for use as emergency accommodation, please contact Senior Management and the proposal will be examined.