SF sleep-out for SVP

Sinn Féin TDs, councillors and activists held a sleep-out last night to protest record levels of child homelessness this Christmas.

The sleep-out, which took place in Kells, Trim, Navan and Ashbourne, raised funds for St Vincent de Paul and was also supported by members of the public.

Latest statistics show that there are over 3,990 homeless children across the state. This number is expected to exceed 4,000 by Christmas.

"Of these homeless children, at least 100 are in County Meath, a figure that starkly illustrates the failure of government housing policy," said Deputy Johnny Guirke.

Deputy Guirke, expressed his gratitude to the participants and called for urgent action from the government.

"I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us across Meath for the sleep-out. Your participation has helped to highlight the urgent issue of child homelessness. The Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien, and his government must take the severity of this housing crisis seriously and enact emergency measures to stem the rising tide of child homelessness."

“Last week, Sinn Féin tried to introduce legislation in the Dáil to reinstate the government's ban on no-fault evictions, which would have taken immediate effect and lasted until the end of March. This move would have afforded the government the necessary breathing room to increase and speed up the construction of social and affordable homes for those currently homeless and in need of a permanent roof over their heads. Inexcusably, though, the Government opposed our bill."

Deputy Darren O'Rourke said; "Our sleep-out protest aimed to shed light on the severe issue of child homelessness, a direct result of failed government policy. We should never accept this as normal. We stand in solidarity with all children and adults facing homelessness this Christmas."

In addition to raising awareness, the sleep-out also aimed to raise funds for SVP (Society of St Vincent de Paul), a charity that supports families in need throughout the year. Donations can be made online at www.svp.ie.