Record 5,571 Children in Emergency Accommodation as Ireland's Homelessness Crisis Deepens
New government figures released today show a record 5,571 children are living in emergency accommodation in Ireland — a 19% increase on last year — as the total number of homeless people reaches 17,517, prompting urgent calls for government action from housing charities.
The Figures
Data released by the Department of Housing on Friday shows that 5,571 children were residing in emergency accommodation during the week of 23-29 March 2026, a significant increase of 19.1% compared to March 2025, when 4,675 children were in similar circumstances. The overall number of individuals in emergency accommodation reached 17,517 — comprising 11,946 adults and 5,571 children — representing a 13.6% increase from March 2025.
Of the 2,659 families in emergency accommodation, 1,525 (57.4%) are headed by single parents. In Dublin, where the crisis is most severe, there are 12,465 homeless individuals, including 4,118 children in 1,866 families.
Charities React
Pat Dennigan, CEO of Focus Ireland, described the situation as "heartbreaking" and emphasised that homelessness is not an unavoidable outcome, advocating for appropriate policies to reverse the trend. Focus Ireland's new five-year strategy aims to deliver 1,000 new homes and enhance support for families.
Simon Communities of Ireland's executive director Ber Grogan called the numbers "unconscionable" and highlighted rising eviction notices, urging coordinated government action.
Policy Context
The increase in homelessness has been linked to new rent rules that came into effect on 1 March 2026, which allow rents to be set at "market rate" between tenancies or after a six-year period. Critics argue these regulations have incentivised landlords to evict tenants. The overall homelessness figure has increased by 46% since the lifting of the ban on no-fault evictions three years ago.
Tánaiste Simon Harris acknowledged that homelessness in Ireland is "far too high" and stated that child homelessness "cannot be accepted," indicating that a specific action plan for child and family homelessness would be published soon.
What's Next
The government has indicated it will publish a specific action plan for child and family homelessness in the coming weeks. Housing charities are calling for an emergency response, including increased social housing construction and stronger tenant protections.
