Novas frontline staff and volunteers recognised by Michael D Higgins at St. Patrick’s Day reception
Novas staff and volunteers attended a St Patricks Day reception at Aras an Uachtarain, hosted by President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina on Sunday the 17th of March 2019. This was a truly wonderful day and was attended by various groups of people working in front-line homeless services.
The highlight of the reception was the president’s speech. His inspirational words spoke of his sincere desire to help and support those who are experiencing homelessness. He referenced those sleeping rough, those who have to move their possessions from hostel to hostel as well as those who are totally dependent on the kindness of friends for shelter.
He mentioned the widening inequalities that exist in Irish society currently, and despite the investment in homeless services, the crises continues to deepen. He urged the construction of more social housing, more radical policies and more investment. He expressed grave concern about the deepening inequality and rising poverty in relation to housing.
Finally, President Higgins thanked people working in front-line services for bringing hope, promise and possibility into the lives of some of Ireland’s most vulnerable citizens, enabling people who are homeless to shape and craft a future of hope and expectation, a future where they can plan, aspire and contribute to society.
