Updated 12.30

The Archbishop of Dublin has called the country's homelessness crisis shameful, and an indication of a "widespread failure of social policy".

Dr Diarmuid Martin's comments come after a report from Focus Ireland revealed that 39 families became homeless in Dublin in the last month alone.

He called on the government to redress the "disadvantage suffered by the vulnerable", and address the social consequences of its economic policy.

Dr Diarmuid Martin says the crisis is part of a wider problem in Ireland's social policy.

Earlier, the Public Expenditure Minister said tackling homelessness remains a top priority for the government, after a new report revealed it is unlikely the coalition will meet its own housing targets.

According to the Irish Times, the Homelessness Oversight Group says ending long-term homelessness by 2016 is becoming more difficult as families compete for scarce housing resources:

Meanwhile, Focus Ireland is calling on the government to increase the rent supplement after noting a 25% rise in the number of people seeking the charity's help last year.

Acting CEO of Focus Ireland, Mark Byrne says immediate action is needed: