The number of people sleeping rough in Dublin is increasing.
Figures published by Dublin City Council today show 168 people were sleeping rough on November 11th, up from 127 in April.
It is also an increase on a count in November of last year, when there were 139 people sleeping rough in Dublin City Centre.
It is the highest figure since the official count began in 2007 and is in addition to over 1,500 individuals in emergency accommodation that night.
The Environment, Community and Local Government Minister says the increasing number of rough sleepers in Dublin reflects the seriousness of the challenge facing the Government, the voluntary sector and other agencies in tackling the homelessness problem.
Alan Kelly also said an additional 20% funding will be available next year for homeless accommodation and related services across the country.
Catherine Kelly, the Dublin Simon Community's Head of Housing, says more urgent action is required:
