Homeless problem is continuing to escalate in Mayo

There are 173 people currently in emergency accommodation in Mayo.

The stark figure was outlined during a presentation on housing to Mayo councillors.

Director of Services Tom Gilligan told a meeting of Mayo County Council that there are 109 adults and 64 children in emergency accommodation. He said the council has seen 194 homeless presentations in 2023, which is a significant increase on the 98 in 2022 and 100 in 2021.

Mr Gilligan outlined to councillors all the social housing projects being delivered and planned in the county.

“There are nearly 800 units there and a very active pipeline. Members can see for themselves what is happening on the ground and the benefits it will bring people moving forward,” Mr Gilligan stated.

He said the number of vacant dwellings in the county has reduced by 19% since 2016 from 10,597 to 8,922.

Councillors welcomed some of the progress being made but contended that delivery of projects remains too slow.

“I am not happy with the turnaround of the council housing stock,” said Cllr Patsy O’Brien. “Houses are lying vacant for too long.”

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne was not impressed either.

“With some of the delivery times for projects in Mayo, Mary Lou (McDonald) will be in power by then!” he remarked. “It’s a long time to be homeless and a long time to be sleeping on a sofa until 2027,” he added.

Cllr Jarlath Munnelly said the council’s own planning department is hindering progress in the county.

“Planning is having a huge impact on the delivery of housing in the county.”

He said the council should be “rolling out the red carpet” for people and fast-tracking certain applications when suitable.

“Our planning department is not acting like there is a housing crisis. We cannot get planning permission around Ballina town at all.”