Depaul says key measures need to be taken to avoid a second wave of homelessness post Covid-19.
The charity says with unemployment predicted to hit 22 per cent, it believes there is a real danger of more people presenting as a homeless as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.
Figures for March showed the total number of people experiencing homelessness stands at 9,907, a drop on the previous month's total.
However, Depaul believes this number could rise in the coming months if measures aren't taken.
The measures include:
- A rent freeze beyond the June 27th
- The moratorium on evictions extended beyond the June 27th
- An urgent change in the regulation of short-term lettings.
- A robust exit strategy for those currently in cocooning in hotels.
- Allow Local Authorities the option of negotiating longer term leases with landlords.
- Referendum on the right to housing.
CEO David Carroll says;
"Since the last recession homelessness in Ireland has grown exponentially. We are now facing into another recession and we simply cannot allow a scenario where homelessness grows again. Prevention is key as we have seen over the last number of years how difficult it has been to stem the flow of individuals and families into homelessness."
Over 1,000 additional accommodation units have been secured in Dublin offering those experiencing homelessness and with underlying health conditions, the ability to cocoon.
