Number of homeless in Ireland exceeds capacity of Croke Park's Hill 16

The number of homeless people in Ireland exceeds the capacity of Hill 16 in Croke Park, after a record number of people living in emergency accommodation was recorded yet again.

According to the Department of Housing, 14,303 people were living in emergency accommodation in June, including 9,899 adults and 4,404 children.

The number is 13 per cent higher than a year ago, and is an increase of 144 people since May.

In comparison, Hill 16 in Croke Park, where the All-Ireland football final will take place this weekend, has a capacity of 13,000.

The Government has continually said reducing the number of people registered as homeless is a priority.

The figure from the State does not include hidden homeless, rough sleepers, women in refuge centres, refugees or asylum seekers.

Rebecca Hamilton, policy analyst at the Simon Communities of Ireland, said the latest figures were "shocking, yet unsurprising".

"4,404 children are spending their summer holidays in emergency accommodation and simply, that is not good enough," she said.

"It is possible to end homelessness. However, without a change in approach to tackling homelessness, we can expect it to continue to rise. Month on month, the Simon Communities of Ireland highlight how this crisis demands emergency action.

"The absence of a secure and safe place to call home is devastating, often leading to isolation, poor physical and mental health.

"Budget 2025 must reflect the crisis we are in and provide the necessary investment needed to make a meaningful impact on homelessness."