Understanding Homelessness in Ireland Since Independence - by Eoin O'Sullivan & Mike Allen & Sarah Sheridan (Paperback)

About the Book

Homelessness in Ireland is deeply tied to housing policies and economic decisions. This book explores its history, revealing how both social issues and dysfunction in the housing system have shaped today's crisis.

Book Synopsis

A century after the state's foundation, Ireland faces an acute homelessness crisis with families and children increasingly affected. This book uncovers how decades of housing policy, financial decisions and social factors have shaped today's housing insecurity. It is the first to take a historical approach, tracing the roots of homelessness back to key policy decisions taken over the past century.

By understanding how we got here, it offers crucial insights into breaking the cycle. Essential reading for policy makers, scholars and anyone concerned about Ireland's housing future, with lessons for other jurisdictions, this book reveals why solving homelessness requires rethinking how we build and fund housing.

Review Quotes

'"Understanding Homelessness in Ireland Since Independence" ends on a surprisingly positive note, with the authors insisting that a "genuine collaboration" between key State agencies can wipe it out by 2036. It's essential reading for anyone with a role to play in breaking this vicious cycle.' The Irish Times

'The first book on Irish housing that examines history and policy through the lens of homelessness. A valuable contribution to the Irish housing canon for experts and lay people alike.' Lorcan Sirr, Technological University Dublin

About the Author

Eoin O'Sullivan is Professor in Social Policy, Trinity College Dublin.

Mike Allen is Director of Advocacy, Research and Communications at Focus Ireland.

Sarah Sheridan is an Independent Researcher and Adjunct Lecturer in the School of Social Work and Social Policy, Trinity College Dublin.