A homeless Ennis mother says it’s unfair that her children are reaching major life milestones while in emergency accommodation.
Margaret Maughan has spoken out after her case was raised in the Dáil, with the Taoiseach himself commenting on a letter her son wrote to Santa, as they face their second Christmas without a permanent roof over their heads.
In a discussion on homelessness in the Dáil this week, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald outlined details of a number of homeless people throughout Ireland.
Among them was a letter to Santa written by Margaret Maughan’s 7-year-old son, who is sharing a room with his parents and younger sister in a B&B in Ennis.
In it, Kevin wrote “Please come to my hotel AGAIN with Batman toys” – Taoiseach Leo Varadkar responded.
Now, Kevin’s mum Margaret has spoken out, criticising the Taoiseach for his remarks.
She says he made “empty promises” that angered her, and a number of other parents who are also raising their children in hotels and B&Bs.
She is also calling on the Council to ensure that vacant homes are put to use, saying that her family’s homelessness is devastating.
In a statement, Clare County Council has said that while it cannot comment on individual cases, the provision of social housing remains a priority for them; while acknowledging the fact that many vacant properties are idle for a variety of reasons outside of their control.
Anyone who is struggling with homelessness can contact Clare County Council’s Homeless Action Team on (065) 6846291 or by emailing [email protected].
