Focus Ireland issued a stark warning as it launched its Pre-Budget Submission which calls for the Government to protect hard-pressed low income households in order to prevent a deepening homeless crisis.

Focus Ireland said that the impact of the recession – combined with repeated cuts to funding in recent years - has already pushed many families and single people to the brink of homelessness.

The continued failure to provide affordable housing is also keeping many families and single people trapped as homeless - staying in unsuitable and expensive emergency accommodation.

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Mike Allen, Director of Advocacy at Focus Ireland said: "Rising unemployment and cuts to some welfare supports have pushed many people even deeper into debt. We are already seeing more people than ever seeking Focus Ireland’s support as they are at risk of losing – or have already lost - their accommodation purely for economic reasons as they are drowning in debt."

Focus Ireland warned that another Budget which fails to protect people struggling on low incomes or welfare will mean more people at risk of losing their home – this applies both to people paying rent or paying mortgages.

Mr Allen added: "The Government has to fully realise that some people are only just about holding on to their homes. Focus Ireland believes that given the current situation it is vital that there are no cuts to homeless services in the coming Budget. There must also be firm action to protect low income households so people do not lose their existing accommodation and become homeless."

Focus Ireland said that support services are already struggling to cope with rising demand.

(CD/GK)