Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 29 June 2023
310. Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage how many deaths were recorded in 2022 of those who were homeless, by county, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31896/23]
View answerMy Department does not collate information relating to deaths of homeless individuals.
On 17 May 2023, the Health Research Board published a report of premature deaths among people experiencing homelessness. This feasibility study was commissioned by the Department of Health to address the need to improve understanding of premature mortality among people who are homeless nationally, and to provide more complete and accurate national data to inform policy.
This report is the first Irish study to examine the number and cause of death in people who were homeless at the time of their death on a national basis. This report makes for very difficult reading. The report found that a total of 84 deaths occurred nationally in 2019 in people who were homeless at the time of their death. I extend my sympathies to the families and friends of the deceased and also acknowledge the important work carried out by those on the frontline. It is a priority of Government to assist people in vulnerable situations.
My Department is committed to continuing to work closely with the Department of Health, the HSE and local authorities to continue to deliver the appropriate measures to support all individuals experiencing homelessness including those with complex needs.
