The number of HAP properties is at a record low, sparking fears that yet more people will fall into homelessness. Just 27 homes are available for those who use the Housing Assistance Payment, according to a Simon Communities latest survey - the lowest figure since its records began eight years ago.
Half of the areas had zero HAP properties available, including Cork, Galway and Limerick cities. Simon Communities Executive Director, Wayne Stanley says the payment is crucial to avoid homelessness.
"It is getting harder and harder to find rental accommodation in Ireland," he said. "It demands a greater response from Government, including in the first instance, an increase in the HAP rates.
"This is not a long-term or even a medium-term solution, but it would relieve pressure on those most vulnerable to homelessness. The best way for Government to drive this change is to increase the targets for social housing to reflect the growing need and then ensure the funding and policy is in place to meet those targets."
