Minister of State Paul Kehoe thanks Civil Defence for Helping the Homeless

12 February 2015

Government Chief Whip and Minister for State at the Department of Defence, Paul Kehoe TD, visited the temporary shelter for the homeless operated by Dublin Civil Defence at Wolfe Tone Quay. The purpose of his visit was to thank the Civil Defence Volunteers who have been caring for the homeless in Dublin.

The Minister met with Dublin Civil Defence Officer, James McConnell and with a number of Volunteers who have been involved in caring for the homeless over recent weeks. The Minister stated: This is a fine example of the wonderful work carried out throughout the country by Civil Defence. Night after night, Civil Defence Volunteers are freely giving of their time to look after some of our most vulnerable citizens. These volunteers are not only from Dublin but also include volunteers who are travelling from as far as Clare and Galway to assist with this important work.

ENDS

BACKGROUND NOTE

Since the 12^th December last, Dublin Civil Defence, with support from Civil Defence Units in other areas around the country, have provided emergency accommodation for up to 20 homeless men at their centre at Wolfe Tone Quay.

The centre opens each evening from 9pm until 9am the following morning. It is overseen by Civil Defence personnel with the support of professional carers contracted by Dublin City Council.

The centre also operated from January to March 2014. The opening date was brought forward this winter as part of the Government’s comprehensive response to the homeless crisis.

Civil Defence is a volunteer based organisation with over 4,000 active volunteers based in every local authority area in the country. Civil Defence supports the emergency services including the Gardai, the HSE and local authorities in dealing with a wide range of emergencies. They also support hundreds of community and sporting events, both local and national events.

Civil Defence policy at a national level is set down by the Department of Defence. At local level Civil Defence is based in each local authority area. On a day to day basis Civil Defence Units operate under the control of a Civil Defence Officer, who is an employee of the local authority.

Photographs

Minister of State Paul Kehoe visits Dublin Civil Defence Homeless Shelter

Civil Defence Homeless Help Praised – Sunday Independent 15th February 2015

 

 

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