A leading social justice campaigner says there is a homeless crisis in Dublin.

Fr Peter McVerry says the current situation in the capital is "scandalous and appalling" and the worst he has seen in the last 35 years.

He also says the Government's plan to end homelessness and rough sleeping by 2016 will now not be achieved.

The Peter McVerry Trust, which is launching its annual report today, says it assisted 3,586 homeless people in Dublin last year, compared to a figure of 383 in 2008.

The Social Protection Minister Joan Burton, pictured below with Fr McVerry, says the Government will make more social housing available to help eradicate homeless.

Our News Correspondent Fergal O'Brien reports: