The number of people accessing homeless services in Ireland has hit yet another new record high.

This October, 14,966 people are registered as homeless, which is up from 14,760 in September.

In the 12 months since October 2023, the data shows an increase of 1,787 people (13.6%) in emergency accommodation.

4,645 were children, showing a 16.4% (654) rise in the same period.

A further 1,808 were 18–24-year-olds, marking a 16.12% (251) increase over the year.

Merchants Quay Ireland (MQ) has launched an urgent winter appeal called ‘Cup of Kindness’ after supporting a record number of vulnerable people this year via their open access day service in Dublin City.  01.11.24. Photography: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography

Tony Geoghegan, spokesperson for the Simon Communities of Ireland said these figures highlight the continued increase in homelessness.

“Month on month, the figures continue to increase and seem to have inured us to the reality that behind these figures are real people - the men, women and children that remain caught in the daily misery of homelessness,” he said.

“While there have been commitments by Government over the years to address the issues, the problem continues unabated.”

“Regardless of the outcome of the current election, and the composition of the new Government, our ask remains the same.

"The new Government must commit to end homelessness and the need to sleep rough by 2030.”

Mr Geoghan said that investments in public and social housing, homeless prevention, and health and social care supports for those experiencing homelessness are needed from the next Government.