Emergency accommodation shortage in north Leitrim forces families to relocate

People from north Leitrim in need of emergency accommodation are being relocated far from their home areas, making it difficult for them to maintain employment and separating them from their children’s schools.

There is just one emergency accommodation provider in north Leitrim.

At the September Manorhamilton municipal district meeting, Cllr Eddie Mitchell asked the Council to consider the effects of increased costs associated with renting in north Leitrim and to find a way to support families needing emergency accommodation without having to leave the municipality.

“I’ve been getting letters from people who are having to stay in Ballinamore in terms of being in emergency accommodation and it has a huge impact on people. 

“Obviously having to deal with emergency accommodation but then having to go somewhere where you can’t get your kids to school or to your work.

“I think we should be able to look after people that need emergency accommodation in north Leitrim and try to accommodate them here,” Cllr Mitchell said.

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Manorhamilton municipal district was told the service is very discreet and confidential. However, it was acknowledged that there is a pressing need for emergency accommodation in the county.

Efforts are made to place individuals as close to family as possible when required, but accommodation options are limited and the duration of stay must be taken into account.

Cllr Mitchell’s motion was supported by all councillors.

A reply from the Director of Services, Housing and Community, Corporate Services, Cultural and Emergency Services said The Council is dependent on a small number of private commercial facilities where temporary emergency accommodation can be provided. In north Leitrim, the Council has an arrangement in place with one such accommodation provider.

If this accommodation is already occupied, the Council has no alternative but to place an individual or family in an alternative location.

The Council are seeking to expand the number of suppliers of temporary emergency accommodation across the county.

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