Courtney McGrailDepaul to open emergency night service
The homeless charity Depaul has announced it is to open an emergency night service in Dublin this month. Located on Little Britain Street, the service will provide 67 beds nightly, from 6.30pm for those at risk of sleeping rough. Those accessing the centre will receive a light meal in the evening, breakfast, shower and some laundry facilities together with on-site health supports.
According to Depaul CEO Kerry Anthony, “These additional beds are absolutely essential to ensure the safety of people who are at risk of sleeping rough in Dublin… The number of people sleeping rough in Dublin has increased by an alarming 56% since last winter.
Vandals attack Tralee nativity scene
Gardaí in Tralee, Co. Kerry are investigating a vandal attack on the town’s Nativity scene. Despite being shielded behind a protective perspex screen, figures in the crib were broken during the attack on December 4, with the figure of St Joseph reportedly suffering extensive damage. Tralee’s Mayor Terry O’Brien condemned the attack and said that given the age of the nativity scene, figures would be hard to replace.