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СпутникиРНSpaceXРоскосмосNASAThe council says a multi-agency approach is in place to ensure continued support is available for vulnerable residents
Belfast City Council has issued a statement after serious concern was raised over the treatment of Belfast's homeless and vulnerable population during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
Independent councillor Paul McCusker highlighted the issue, claiming that there are growing reports that people experiencing homelessness are being encouraged or directed away from the city centre into other parts of Belfast.
Cllr McCusker says this makes it increasingly difficult for outreach workers and support agencies to locate and assist them.
"Since Sunday, we have been made aware of five overdose incidents. Thankfully, each individual received medical attention, but these incidents highlight the serious risks associated with displacing vulnerable people from established support networks," he added.
Cllr McCusker, who works in the homelessness sector, said: "Homelessness and substance misuse have been major challenges in Belfast for many years. Despite the efforts of charities, outreach teams and community organisations, these issues would be a lot worse. Simply moving people from one location to another does not address the underlying problems. Instead, it risks pushing vulnerable individuals further away from essential services and support."
In response a spokesperson for Belfast City Council said: “Council continues to work with agencies across the statutory, voluntary and community sectors on a joint approach to tackling homelessness, addiction and anti-social behaviour through our Complex Lives programme, supporting some of our city’s most vulnerable people to help break the cycle of chronic homelessness.
“A multi-agency approach is in place throughout the Fleadh to ensure continued support is available for vulnerable residents as visitor numbers into the city increase, particularly in Belfast city centre. Routine patrols, welfare checks and cleansing support all continue to operate, supported by enhanced co-ordination between organisations.”
They added: “Our Safer Neighbourhood Officers are on patrol, providing a visible and reassuring presence to visitors, supporting the PSNI and assisting organisations working with those who are vulnerable to ensure they continue to be signposted towards services and support available.
“All essential vehicles providing outreach, health and support services have access to the city centre, organised through the dedicated Accreditation and Logistics Hub. The usual welfare checks, carried out by external agencies, continue to take place between 7am and 10am, and 10pm to 3am. We are also sharing real-time information between organisations, ensuring vulnerable people, visitors and businesses are supported in a timely and proportionate manner.
“Our council does not have statutory powers to deal with homelessness or healthcare provision. Like other local councils in Northern Ireland, we cannot set up new healthcare facilities, place people into temporary accommodation, or take action to tackle crime.
“What we can do, however, is bring the relevant agencies with those powers together and encourage them to work in partnership, and with us, to tackle issues, and ensure Belfast is a great place for everyone to live, work and do business.”
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