Statement on Announcement in Dáil Regarding Access to Emergency Accommodation and Local Connection Rule

Dublin Simon Community welcomes the news announced today in the Dail by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, that the Minister for Housing will be writing to local authorities to state that no one should be denied access to accommodation based on the local connection rule.

Dublin Simon operates the Assertive Outreach team in Dublin in partnership with the DRHE and engages with the homeless population on the streets of Dublin 365 days a year. The Outreach team was last night joined by Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien, who witnessed first-hand the difficulties faced by people rough sleeping in Dublin.

Dublin Simon Community has been a strong advocate for straightforward access to emergency accommodation for all those who need it and we are very pleased that the Minister has taken this action today.

Our Outreach teams and support services will continue to work towards supporting those experiencing homelessness into suitable accommodation and onwards in their journey towards a stable home.