Mayo homeless figures revealed

There are more than 100 adults and over 50 children in emergency accommodation in Mayo.

The figures were revealed at a meeting of Mayo County Council’s Housing Strategic Policy Committee (SPC). 

Independent Cllr Christy Hyland contended that the housing section of the council is offering accommodation to people who claim to be homeless but offers of housing are being turned down because people don’t want to move to certain towns.

“To turn around and say ‘No, I’m not going to that town.’ Are they homeless at all?”, said Cllr Hyland.

Cllr Michael Kilcoyne countered by saying he understands why circumstances might lead a person to turn down an offer. He said in some cases an individual might have children in school in a town or have a child with special needs.

“The family does come into it,” said Cllr Kilcoyne.

“I’m not talking about people with families,” Cllr Hyland replied.