Highest number of adults in emergency accommodation in Waterford since 2018
120 adults were in emergency accommodation in February 2025, the highest since February 2018. Stock image.
One hundred and twenty adults were in local authority emergency accommodation in Waterford last month.
That is according to the monthly homelessness report published by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
Last month’s figure is the highest since February 2018, when 123 adults were in emergency accommodation.
It is also the seventh increase in a row.
In the South East region, 339 adults were in emergency accommodation between February 17 and 23.
Nationally, 10,725 adults were in emergency accommodation.
There were 2,185 families in emergency accommodation with 4,653 children.
Of those 67 families and 109 children were in the South East region.
Chief Executive of Depaul, David Carroll, is “saddened” by the new numbers and called on the government to “renew Ireland’s approach to homelessness.”
Depaul runs McGwire House on Bath Street in Waterford City.
"This homelessness crisis continues unabated. When we reflect on these latest numbers, we are once again reminded that behind these numbers are men, women and children living with the uncertainty that comes from experiencing homelessness.
"Furthermore, we believe the picture is further complicated when we consider what they are enduring and suffering in terms of the toll this is taking on their mental health and that of the children affected," said Mr Carroll.
Mr Carroll went on to say that research by the organisation showed that one in two of Depaul’s homeless services users report issues of depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.
