The homelessness crisis throughout Ireland has "spiralled out of control", Sinn Féin has claimed.

Deputy Leader, Mary Lou McDonald TD, said homelessness is out of control because of a direct result of government inactions.

She said: "On your watch family homelessness has increased by 86% in one year. It is a direct result of actions and inactions of your government. Since July 2014 family homelessness has increase by a shocking 200%.

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"Families are being turned away from the local authorities because there is not enough emergency accommodation. Hard working staff in local authorities are being forced into deciding why gets a bed and who is left out onto the street.

"With more families presenting than beds available, Council staff are left to determine who is the most deserving.

"Tánaiste, what will your government do tonight, this week and next week to ensure that no child is forced to sleep rough because of a lack of emergency accommodation?"

(CD/LM)