Labour made the call after a report by Focus Ireland revealed the devastating impact homelessness can have on children and families.
Spokesperson on Housing, Jan O'Sullivan TD, said "urgent action" is needed to tackle the crisis.
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She said: "From changes in behaviour, boredom and anxiety to the negative impact on a child's education, some of the accounts of these families are heart breaking.
"It also shows the pressure and stress placed on families while they are living in emergency accommodation and after, when the report says some of the issues come to light.
"With 1,455 families, including 3,124 children, homeless in Ireland today, there are many more families around the country with similar stories to tell.
"We have got to get to grips with this crisis to prevent more children and families becoming homeless."
(CD/LM)
