A call has been issued for a new approach to the housing and homelessness crisis at the Labour Party's national Think-in Cork.

The party's housing spokesperson, Jan O'Sullivan delivered a speech at the event, in which she condemned the government for not building enough social and affordable homes.

Deputy O'Sullivan said: "The latest homelessness figures show more than 10,000 people are now without a roof over their heads in this State- that's an extra 3,750 people on the same period three years ago.

"What is so tragic is that this figure also includes nearly 4 thousand children; a shocking indictment of this Government's record.

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"The private rental sector is continuing to virtually bankrupt families, forcing many into homelessness and making it practically impossible for others to save for a deposit for a house.

"Research has shown it's now cheaper to pay a mortgage than to rent a starter and family home everywhere throughout Ireland, and it's no surprise that seven in 10 renters believe they'll never be able to afford to buy a home."

She continued: "There are still vacant properties littered around the country which could be turned around and made into suitable accommodation. And there is still land being hoarded by speculative developers looking to make an easy buck.

"We are not in ordinary times when it comes to the housing crisis and the State needs to take the lead in the provision of homes.

"Housing is a basic human need, not something optional. As such, a market approach to housing will inevitably fail, as it has failed in Ireland and elsewhere, again and again."

(CM/MH)