Irish state homelessness spending set to exceed two billion euros

Irish government spending on homelessness services is set to reach more than 2.4 billion euros for the decade so far, the Irish Examiner reported. The figures come as the number of people accessing emergency accommodation continues to increase month on month across the country. [1]

Data from the Department of Housing shows that nearly 1.89 billion euros was spent on homelessness supports between 2020 and 2025. An additional 513 million euros has been allocated for homelessness services in 2026, bringing the six year total past 2.4 billion euros, according to the Irish Examiner. [1]

The Irish Examiner reported that a record 17,885 people were recorded as having accessed emergency accommodation in August. The Department of Housing does not directly fund emergency accommodation, but instead provides funding to local housing authorities who administer services across Ireland. [1]

Homelessness describes the condition of lacking stable, safe, and adequate housing. Individuals are categorized as homeless if they live on the streets, move between temporary shelters, or reside in emergency accommodation. [2]