Over 125 families in Dublin became homeless in January this year, according to figures from the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive.

Sinn Féin Leader Gerry Adams TD said the figures "make a mockery" of claims the government is tackling the crisis.

Mr Adams said: "The number of such families in emergency accommodation now stands at 769, which includes 1,570 children.

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"In recent years, the Government ignored repeated appeals by Sinn Féin and others to deal with what amounts to a housing emergency.

"Families forced to live on the streets, in cars or in emergency accommodation is a scandal in any modern society.

"In Government, Sinn Féin will end this scandal by delivering €5 billion in capital spending on housing over the next five years to ensure the delivery of 36,500 new social and affordable homes."

(CD)