RTE NEWS: Unprecedented spike in Dublin homeless deaths in 2020
Read more at https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2020/0918/1166116-homeless-deaths/
There has been an "unprecedented spike" in the number of homeless people who have died in Dublin this year, according to a report by the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive.
Eight people died in August, which brings to 39 the total number of homeless people that have died in the capital in 2020.
That figure exceeds the total number of homeless people who died in 2018 and 2019 .
The report, which was acquired by the Aontu Party, said the exact cause of death will be a matter for an inquest in each case.
However, it added: "It appears at this stage that drugs and alcohol intoxication were a big factor in most of these tragic deaths."
It said the DRHE and the HSE are "deeply saddened" by what has occurred.
It said they will continue to work together to develop "a deeper insight into these cases and identify any gaps in services".