Ireland's homelessness crisis has reached a new record high, with 17,517 people in emergency accommodation as of March 2026, according to the latest data from the Department of Housing. This represents an increase of 209 people compared to the previous month.
Of those in emergency accommodation, 5,571 were children, and 2,659 families were accessing these services. The figures, released by the department, highlight the ongoing strain on the system.
The data, which is based on reports from local authorities, shows that the number of individuals experiencing homelessness has been rising steadily over the past year. The previous record was set in February 2026 with 17,308 people.
Advocacy groups have called for urgent government action to address the root causes of homelessness, including housing supply shortages and rising rents. The government has pledged to increase social housing delivery, but critics say progress has been too slow.
