09-07-2025
256 individuals in emergency accommodation in Meath
At the July meeting of Meath County Council, Independent Councillor Alan Lawes called for improved fire safety measures across emergency accommodation facilities, as homelessness figures remain high both locally and nationally.
Cllr Lawes raised concerns about the safety of residents living in temporary housing, saying: 'I am calling on Meath County Council to ensure that all emergency accommodation facilities have a current fire certificate.'
A Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) is required for all new buildings—including apartments and flats—except for private houses and agricultural structures. It certifies that a building or works comply with Building Regulations and must be obtained before construction begins.
In response, the council confirmed that a 'Minimum Standard for Emergency Accommodation' is currently being developed.
'If agreed, and where applicable, the need for a valid fire certificate can be included in the minimum criteria,' the council said.
'It is anticipated that the draft document will be presented at the next meeting of the Housing and Integration SPC.'
According to Meath County Council's July management report, 256 individuals, including 122 children, were in emergency accommodation in the county at the end of May 2025.
The report also noted that 71 families have been placed in short-term private rented accommodation through the Council's Settlement Team, while seven families are currently housed in Family Hubs.
As of May, there were only nine emergency accommodation beds available in the county, spread across Trim, Navan, Athboy, and Drogheda. The council added that it is not the sole user of these facilities, as some property owners also work with neighbouring local authorities, including Louth, Fingal, Westmeath, and Kildare.
