Homeless figures increase to a record high of 15,286 as Focus Ireland urge Government to prioritise new social housing for vulnerable families
New figures issued by the Department of Housing today show an increase in homelessness of 422 people for January 2025 to a new record high total of 15,286 people homeless. For the same month there are also 93 more children, and 72 more families compared to December 2024 (4,603 children and 2,164 families or January 2025).
Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan stated that the latest figures represent a significant, but not unexpected, setback following the positive decline in family homelessness before Christmas. The charity pointed out that the data suggests part of the drop in homelessness in December was due to families temporarily staying with relatives for Christmas. However, these overcrowded living situations are not a long-term solution.
He emphasised that homelessness is solvable with the right policies and approach.
Mr Dennigan said: “With recent troubling world events, it is understandable to feel a sense of helplessness, however, as a nation and society, Ireland has the control to significantly change homelessness for the better. In the past fortnight we met with Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Housing Minister James Browne outlining how new social homes should be leveraged to genuinely assist the most vulnerable. Focus Ireland believes that fairer housing allocations can greatly help reduce the number of families and individuals experiencing homelessness. With the right actions, 2025 could be a key turning point in the crisis.”
He added, “Ireland is a wealthy country with a surplus that many nations envy, and homelessness should not be seen as something we must accept. It’s important to remember that homelessness can be prevented and ended with the right policies.
“While these figures leave us even further away from the target of ending homelessness by 2030, it is crucial that Government does not let just give up, it is still possible to turn things around and achieve significant goals like ending long term homelessness by 2030.”
During recent meetings with Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Housing Minister James Browne, Mr Dennigan also stressed the importance of collaboration between homeless organisations, Local Authorities and national government.
He adds: “Solving homelessness is possible but it is a complex challenge that requires ongoing government attention and shared problem-solving. The government must move quickly to establish collaborative structures, supported at the Cabinet level, to develop and implement a comprehensive homelessness strategy. This must involve local authorities, state agencies, and frontline organizations working together to create sustainable solutions and ensure long-term progress.”