I would be concerned about anything that would in any way dampen down the voices of communities.' In a statement on Sunday, the department said that it was Government policy to move towards more “State-owned accommodation, and reduce the use of emergency commercial accommodation over time”. “There’s obviously a balance here, but I do always think having an opportunity for communities to engage is very important too. I think the voices of communities, engaging with communities actually helps enhance social cohesion, and I would be concerned about anything that would in any way dampen down the voices of communities,” said Harris. And I think actually hearing the voices of communities is a good thing.”

Source: The Irish Times April 05, 2026 19:45 UTC