A protest will take place in Dublin City Centre today calling for the government to take action on the housing crisis.

The call comes as the number of people in emergency accommodation is at a record high.

Thousands are expected to attend the protest organised by the Raise the Roof campaign, including musicians and opposition politicians.

According to Social Democrats Housing spokesperson Cian O'Callaghan, the handling of the homelessness crisis by the government "is nothing short of a disaster".

Almost 11,400 people were staying in emergency accommodation last month.

"Firstly, what the government should be doing is ensuring that empty social homes around the country ... they should be getting those back into use very quickly", Deputy O'Callaghan said.

There are currently around 4,500 vacant homes, which he said there is "no excuse" for.

Tomorrow let's Raise the Roof
Here's a derelict site in heart of Dublin
Emblematic of Utter failure to provide homes
We need a new direction in housing
Let's stand up together #RaiseTheRoof #Nov26 @RTRHomesForAll pic.twitter.com/3gdoDZuql8

— Rory Hearne (@RoryHearneGaffs) November 25, 2022

Housing expert Rory Hearne has also expressed his support for Raise the Roof.

In a video uploaded to Twitter, he described the housing crisis as a social and economic emergency.

"Let's come together, show this government that we are not accepting it", he said.

"We need a major, major change in housing to ensure a home for everyone."

Protesters will march from Parnell Square to Leinster House at 1pm today.

Main image shows terraced houses. Picture by: mauritius images GmbH/Alamy