Cork integrated services hub
Deputy Kenny urged support for a proposed integrated services hub in Cork for people experiencing homelessness and daytime service gaps. The Minister asked which Department had received the business case and said the proposal would be investigated.
I want to raise an important issue with the Minister. Cork City Council has sent a business case to the Government regarding the establishment of an integrated services hub.
Across our towns and cities we are seeing more and more needs arising for individuals, particularly adults who are homeless. Across Cork we have charitable organisations offering beds for people to sleep, groups providing food, and many other amenities as well but what do people do during the day in terms of services? They need to be provided with a service like this, which would be the first of its kind in Ireland. It would provide food, shelter, activities, supports and any additional information people need. In the long run this venue could be the location for the provision of a supervised drug injection centre for the city. Is the Minister aware of this business case? What is the Government's stance on it as an integrated services hub for Cork? Will a business case be signed off?
Comment on this
I know we cannot have an over and back on this. I am not sure who it has been sent to. Is it the Department of housing? I assume it is. To what Government Department has it been sent?
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I am unsure who it has been sent to.
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We will try to find out who within government has received the particular business case, or which Government Department, and indeed under what funding scheme it is proposed to support that particular project of an integrated services hub. We always welcome any initiative of local authorities, or indeed local communities, to provide rounded supports and services for vulnerable people in our community. We have countless examples of it happening in Dublin and it is positive to see such initiatives being proposed in Cork. I will ask whatever line Department to which it is being submitted to evaluate it and come back to the Deputy with a position.