The report, authored by South East Technological University (SETU) lecturer Dr Méabh Savage, was formally launched by human rights lawyer Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC at a multidisciplinary conference in Dublin yesterday.

It examines the legal and policy landscape and builds on existing research to reveal how long-term homelessness exacerbates inequalities and violates the human rights of minority ethnic children.

It highlights the importance of recognising diversity within the lived experiences of family homelessness and how intersectional identities — such as race, ethnicity, class, gender, and migration status — contribute to the complex challenges these families face.

The report goes on to make a number of recommendations for policy and legislative change, including standardisation of minimum accommodation standards, comprehensive training for housing staff, increased housing stock and legislative amendments to prioritise the best interests of children.

Yesterday’s conference also heard from Maria Joyce of the National Traveller Women’s Forum, paediatrician Dr Aoibhinn Walsh, housing expert and SETU lecturer Rory Hearne, and the Irish Refugee Council’s policy and advocacy officer, Madeleine Alen.

Both the report and conference were funded by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission under its 2023/24 grant scheme.

Commenting on the report, author Dr Savage said: “I see children being left behind, especially in terms of their education.

“When they live in unstable environments, their fight-or-flight response is constantly activated. They may have to take multiple buses to school, be embarrassed that their clothes aren’t washed, and deal with various stressors.

“By the time they get to school, their bodies and brains are already under stress, and they are falling behind.”

Teresa Kelly, managing solicitor of MLRC, said: “We are proud to present this vital report. The findings underscore the critical gaps in our current housing system and call for immediate action to protect the rights and well-being of these vulnerable families and their children.

“Legislative and policy change is necessary to address family homelessness among minority ethnic communities and put an end to a generation of children suffering due to inaction by the state.”