COMHAIRLE CONTAE ÁTHA CLIATH THEAS
SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

MEETING OF SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL

Monday, March 14, 2022

QUESTION NO. 15

QUESTION: Councillor C. O'Connor

To ask the Chief Executive if he has any details of Rough Sleepers across the County will he confirm assistance offered to such people and will he make a statement?

REPLY:

The Council operates an outreach service and multi-agency approach to address rough sleepers across the County.  Our Homeless Outreach Worker works closely with the HSE and other relevant agencies in identifying rough sleepers and sourcing appropriate accommodation and support services, with eight current clients of our homeless services identified as rough sleepers but the needs of rough sleepers are often very complex and challenging and require a comprehensive and coordinated approach.

The Council provides hostel-type accommodation in our own administrative area and through the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive Central Placement Services and there is presently sufficient capacity in the system for any rough sleeper to be referred to emergency accommodation.  Our homeless team works with our public realm and parks sections to identify any rough sleeping and the outreach worker will visit and try to engage with the client, while liaising with various other outreach and support services in relation to their needs.  Unfortunately, some clients refuse to engage and avail of any services and in such cases, the situation will continue to be monitored and contact will be maintained where possible.

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.