Homelessness problem getting worse in westmeath

Over 30 homeless people were in temporary accommodation in Westmeath at end of May, more than the rest of the midlands counties combined.

According to Westmeath County Council's monthly management report, there were 32 local people in temporary accommodation on May 31, while the combined figure for Laois, Offaly and Longford was only 27. Twenty four people were in temporary accommodation at the end of April.

Overall, there were 81 "valid presentations" for homelessness to May 31, according to the council's report. In the entire midlands region, which covers Westmeath, Offaly, Laois and Longford, there were 161 valid presentations.