The number of people registered homeless across Ireland has risen by 540 in the month of January.

Latest figures published from the Department of Housing show 10,217 people living in emergency accommodation in January. This represents an additional 388 adults, 52 children and 63 families than December 2019.

Sinn Féin representative Eoin Ó Broin has called for an independent review of the December figures.

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"This is deeply concerning. Current policy is continuing to fail the families, children and individuals in emergency accommodation and the incoming government must change direction and take decisive action," Deputy Ó Broin said.

"The big increase seen in the January figures underlines the deep suspicion that many have on the veracity of the figures published in December.

"Rather than politicising this discussion, it is our view that an independent review of the December homeless figures should be conducted by the CSO or the Housing Agency.  

"Strong consideration must also be given to giving responsibility for collating and publishing the homeless data to an independent body such as the CSO so that there is no perception of or actual manipulation of the figures."

(CM/MH)