Rahan campaigner makes rallying call for action on housing crisis

Rahan mental health campaigner Ray Larkin joined the Raise the Roof campaign rally outside Leinster House on Tuesday night in a unified call for urgent Government action on Ireland's housing and homelessness crisis.

In a social media post prior to the rally, Larkin said that the current crisis was taking a "mental and physical toll" on young people who were forced to commute long hours for study and work purposes.

"The current housing crisis is no longer just about bricks and mortar, it’s about opportunity and basic fairness. When young people are forced to commute long hours each day, it not only takes a toll on their mental and physical health, but also undermines their ability to participate fully in college life. Many are missing out on lectures, group work, and social development because they simply can’t afford to live near their place of education.

"We are at serious risk of creating a two-tiered education system, one where only the well-off can afford to live and study in our cities, while others struggle to keep up from the margins. Parents across the country, especially in rural areas like the Midlands, are doing everything they can to support their children, but they’re being pushed to the limit.

"It’s time for real investment in affordable student accommodation, increased support for renters, and long-term planning that puts people before profit. Everyone deserves a secure place to live, and our young people deserve a fair shot at their future," Mr Larkin said.

The Raise the Roof group is co-ordinated by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.