31 Mr. Byrne asked the Minister for Defence if his Department have taken any steps to establish the number of former members of the Defence Forces who are believed to be homeless and living rough on the streets; if he will consider any special measures to assist such former personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The provision of housing for persons who are unable to house themselves is a matter for the local authorities. In that regard former members of the Defence Forces have the same right to such housing as other members of the community.

While there is no financial allocation in the Vote for Defence for the provision of housing for former members of the Defence Forces, who are, in fact, civilians, my Department are prepared to make representations on their behalf to the relevant local authorities.