A Waterford woman was allegedly advised to couch-surf for a period of two weeks when presenting to homeless services.
The case was highlighted at this month's Plenary meeting of Waterford City & County Council by Labour Councillor, Thomas Phelan.
Cllr. Phelan spoke as CSO figures from the latest census which were presented at the meeting, revealed that house prices in Waterford have risen by 63% in the last six years.
Cllr. Phelan outlined the case in question, and expressed concerns with how homeless services may cope with a consistent increase in the county's population.
"In relation to homeless services, obviously rental and HAP properties have become more scarce than ever. Can we be re-assured that the Council's homeless service is going to be up to the task facing it? I was dealing with a case lately of a person who presented themselves and apparently was told to come back in two weeks. She was basically told to go couch-surfing. They eventually got some help but found the process very offputting."
Speaking in response to Cllr. Phelan, Director of Housing with Waterford Council, Mr. Ivan Grimes expressed his surprise.
"Cllr. Phelan - in relation to homeless services, I'd like to talk to you about your recent experience because it would surprise me if somebody was told to go away and to come back in two weeks. I might talk to you offline about that."
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