Homelessness in Ireland continues to rise, as February data is published

Recent homelessness figures for February 2026 highlight a further increase in the number of people experiencing homelessness across the State. The number of adults and children residing in emergency accommodation last month reached 17,308, an increase of 196 compared to the previous month, and almost 2,000 additional individuals over the past twelve months. This represents one of the highest levels of recorded homelessness in the State.

There is growing concern that recent changes to rental regulations may increase the risk of additional households entering homelessness. The number of Notices of Termination issued in the first quarter of 2026 has increased by 41% compared to the same period last year. While these figures relate to a period prior to the introduction of the new legislation, there is evidence of increasing numbers of households presenting to services with a notice to quit, placing further pressure on already stretched emergency accommodation systems.

In our family service in Limerick, 8% of families are currently overholding in their rented accommodation, that is, remaining in their homes beyond the date of termination due to having no alternative housing options, including emergency or hotel accommodation. A further 25% of families we work with are living with a notice to quit and struggling to secure suitable alternative housing.

This situation is deeply concerning and reflects sustained pressure across both the rental market and homeless services.

While the current landscape is extremely challenging, homelessness is not inevitable. With the right policies, it can be significantly reduced and ultimately ended. This will require targeted prevention measures, a substantial increase in the supply of appropriate housing in the right locations, and ring-fenced allocations for households experiencing long-term homelessness.