The Sinn Féin President has accused the Taoiseach of implementing 'scrooge-like' policies which will leave many homes "colder and poorer this Christmas".

Speaking during Leaders Questions in the Dáil this morning Gerry Adams pressed the Taoiseach on the appointment of a Minister for Housing. The Taoiseach refused to give an explanation for the delay in this.

Speaking afterward Mr. Adams said: "The refusal by the Taoiseach to appoint a Minister for Housing at a time of severe housing need and crisis is an abject failure of leadership and responsibility.

-- Advertisement --

"It is a fact that a TD can stand on the plinth outside the Dáil and see the grim reality of homelessness in this city, where night after night – from summertime to the depths of freezing winter – people are forced to sleep rough.

"Homeless support groups report a significant increase in the demand for their services. There are 5000 homeless across the state while around 200 citizens sleep rough.

"In addition there has been a succession of deeply harmful cuts to homeless and housing budgets while there are over 300,000 empty houses and apartments in the state – many now owned by NAMA."

The Sinn Féin leader reminded the Taoiseach that we are on the cusp of Christmas and accused the government of implementing "scrooge-like" policies.

(CD/GK)