EU Nationals in the Homelessness Crisis in Ireland: From Emergency Assistance to Long-Term Solutions
On Friday, 15 May 2026, a conference entitled “EU Nationals in the Homelessness Crisis in Ireland: From Emergency Assistance to Long-Term Solutions” was jointly organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Dublin and Barka for Mutual Help Ireland, at the Residence of the Ambassador of the Republic of Poland in Dublin.
The conference brought together more than 60 representatives of Irish and Polish support organisations, public institutions, hospitals, prisons, members of An Garda Síochána, diplomats accredited to Ireland, and professionals working directly with people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
The meeting focused on the growing challenges faced by EU nationals experiencing homelessness in Ireland, as well as on the need to strengthen cooperation between public institutions, consular services, healthcare providers, law enforcement agencies, and non-governmental organisations.
The opening speeches were delivered by Charge d’Affaires Piotr Erenfeicht and Senator Aubrey McCarthy, who highlighted the importance of coordinated and compassionate responses to homelessness and addiction among vulnerable EU citizens.
During the conference, representatives of the Polish consular service presented the scope of consular assistance available to Polish nationals in crises, including support for individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and health-related difficulties. Particular attention was also given to cooperation with Polish community organisations operating abroad and assisting vulnerable citizens.
An important part of the event was the presentation by Barka Foundation for Mutual Help, which showcased its long-standing outreach work supporting socially excluded individuals in Ireland and across Europe. Participants learned about Barka’s model of social and professional reintegration, including assistance offered to people wishing to return to Poland and rebuild their lives.
A powerful personal testimony was shared by Marcin Ślusarski, who spoke about his own journey out of homelessness and alcohol addiction, and his path back to independent living and social reintegration. His story highlighted the importance of long-term support, trust, and community-based assistance.
The panel discussion, entitled “Support in Changing Realities – Challenges and Responses of Organisations Supporting People Experiencing Homelessness in Ireland,” provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences, discuss current challenges, and identify practical solutions to improve cooperation among organisations and institutions working on the front line.
The conference demonstrated the importance of partnership-based approaches in addressing homelessness among EU citizens and emphasised the need for sustainable, long-term solutions that go beyond emergency intervention.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all speakers, panelists, and participants for their valuable contributions and engagement throughout the event. Special thanks go to Senator Aubrey McCarthy for his inspiring speech and long-standing commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals in Ireland.
The event provided an important platform for dialogue, cooperation, and the strengthening of networks between organisations and institutions committed to supporting people experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
