The issue of homelessness plagues Ireland and many other countries around the world but, as someone who calls Drogheda home, Peter James Nugent finds it disheartening to see the number of homeless people increasing in our town and we cannot turn a blind eye.
“What’s worse is that the situation is getting more and more frustrating, with more people struggling to find a place to call their own” says Peter James who is standing as an independent candidate in the June 7 local elections.
“We need to acknowledge that everyone deserves a home. It is a basic human need, and not a luxury” says Peter. “I cannot stay quiet while fellow community members are forced to live on the streets or in temporary emergency accommodation.
“Recently, I came across a family who havebeen sleeping in their car for months because they cannot afford the high rent prices in Drogheda. Can you imagine living in a car with five people? This is unacceptable and calls for immediate action.
“At this point, I would like to commend the efforts of organisations like Drogheda Homeless Aid and Dundalk Simon Community, who are working tirelessly to provide temporary shelter for those in need.
“However, we must also acknowledge that these shelters are often at full capacity, leaving many people with nowhere to go. Moreover, the situation for women and children is even worse, with women’s refuge centres struggling to accommodate the increasing number of families seeking help.
“This is a matter of grave concern and something needs to be done urgently. I believe that our local governing bodies, in this case, Louth County Council, play a crucial role in addressing the issue of homelessness in our town.
“I am calling on them to take immediate action towards providing better emergency accommodation or long-term housing solutions for those who are homeless. It is also worth mentioning that there are many vacant homes in Drogheda that can be utilised to house those in need.
“The council should take measures to prioritize these homes for families who are struggling to find a place to live. Additionally, the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) system needs to be improved to make it more accessible and efficient for those in need. I urge everyone in Drogheda to come together and give a voice to the homeless.
Mr. Nugent says it is high time that we take a stand and demand better living conditions for our fellow community members. We cannot turn a blind eye to this issue any longer. Action is needed, and it is needed now.”
Let’s all join forces and make Drogheda a place where everyone has a roof over their head and a place to call home. Homeless line 087 4186 000 Are you worried about losing your home? Threshold 1800 454454 Presenting homeless under 18 years of age contact your local Community Welfare officer.
