Cork city councillor: Homeless people are entitled to dignity

A Cork city councillor has voiced disappointment following the news that funding has yet to be allocated for the establishment of a day centre to support Cork’s homeless population.

Fine Gael TD for Cork North Central and former minister of state Colm Burke raised the centre in the Dáil earlier this month, saying that the HSE, Cork City Council, and the departments of housing and health met at the end of 2024 to discuss opening a day centre for homeless people in the city centre.

A building has been identified, but funding is needed for its refurbishment, Mr Burke explained, asking why it was not included in the latest HSE capital plan.

Education minister Helen McEntee, speaking on behalf of the government, said: “My understanding is HSE South West has developed a business case and that has been presented to the HSE and the Department of Health.

“There are conversations and engagement happening to see how this plan can be funded and how it can be progressed for all the reasons the deputy has outlined, including that we provide that support and that resource to people who need it most.

“There is a costed plan there, and the intention is to see how funding can be secured.” Sinn Féin councillor for the North West ward, Michelle Gould, last year submitted a motion calling for the urgent creation of such a facility, highlighting the need for a safe, clean, and welcoming space where people could access basic services including food, showers, clothing, phone charging, and social supports.

Ms Gould told The Echo: “Homeless people have been left to walk the streets, with nowhere to go during the day. It’s appalling. They are entitled to dignity and support from the state.

“Recent months have seen a number of tragic deaths among the homeless community in Cork, further underlining the urgent need for intervention. I believe a properly funded day centre could serve as a lifeline, helping prevent future tragedies.”

She said that at the next council meeting, she plans to press for a clear commitment and a definitive timeline for opening such a centre.

Ms Gould is also calling for increased government support for homeless charities including the Simon Community and Threshold, which provide vital services but are stretched thin by growing demand. It comes as monthly figures showed that the number of people in emergency accommodation in Cork has risen to a new record high of 641.