Govt launches child and family homelessness action plan

The Government has launched an Action Plan on child and family homelessness, with implementation beginning immediately.

According to the latest available official data from the Department of Housing, 5,830 children are living in emergency accommodation in the State, a record high for child homelessness.

The plan called 'Aire', which has been published on the Government's website, contains 43 actions, backed by an additional €20 million investment.

The actions are across housing, health, education, childcare, youth services and family support to ensure "an improved and more coordinated response to child and family homelessness".

The measures are designed to improve outcomes for children, strengthen prevention efforts, and enhance the supports available to families experiencing homelessness.

Minister for Housing James Browne has said the plan will ensure that children and families affected by homelessness receive the support they need in the meantime.

Prevention remains the priority, according to the Government, with actions in the plan designed to help families sustain tenancies and avoid entering homelessness.

"Where homelessness cannot be prevented, the Plan focuses on protecting children’s well-being while in temporary accommodation," it said.

It also focuses on supporting families to move as quickly as possible into secure, long-term housing.

The Action Plan was first committed to in November 2025.

There were increasing calls in recent months for the action plan to be published from homeless organisations, the Ombudsman for Children’s Office, the Children’s Rights Alliance, and Opposition parties due to growing child homelessness figures.

Executive Director at Simon Communities of Ireland, Ber Grogan welcomed the publication of the plan, particularly the commitment to advance the 43 actions outlined within one year and the provision of an additional €20 million across Departments.

"This funding must be ring-fenced to ensure all relevant Departments are adequately resourced and accountable for delivering their commitments," she said.

She said it was essential that the plan prioritise prevention and early intervention, with clear actions and measurable outcomes to ensure families receive the support they need before reaching crisis point.