Groups unite to give ‘local solutions to national crisis’

By Maurice Garvey

THE homeless crisis saw a local response this week – with stakeholders attending a seminar in Ballyfermot Civic Centre to try and work on solutions.

Over 50 people, representing housing organisations, homeless groups, Dublin City Council, local schools and gardaí, were in attendance at the event, hosted by Ballyfermot Homeless Network on Monday.

Research commissioned by the Ballyfermot Partnership was launched at the event, which highlighted the serious nature of the homeless crisis for Ballyfermot families.

Sinn Féin councillor Daithí Doolan, a member of the Network, said: “This was a very successful day. We have now established a partnership between local and national NGOs, Dublin City Council and local organisations.

“The aim is to provide local solutions to a national crisis. We will work together to tackle the causes and effects of homelessness here in Ballyfermot.

“We want to ensure families at risk of homelessness get the support they need to stay in their home. Meanwhile, we want to support those families that are already in emergency accommodation.

“It is essential that supports are in place for families in hotels and B&Bs. Homework clubs, laundry services and play space are very important for families with young children.”

Some of the issues raised, found local people being housed in areas on the other side of the city, and the difficulties in getting their children to school in Ballyfermot.

The Network plan is to link in with the local area working group, which is trying to improve housing, education, health and job prospects in the community.

The working group is meeting with Government Ministers to thrash out possible solutions and a consultancy report is due to be published in a couple of months.