THE UNITED NATIONS committee behind the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty will meet in Dublin this week to plan events for this year.

The day has been observed for just over two decades now, starting in 1993 and has been held every year.

It is designated as promoting awareness of “the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries”.

“The people of Ireland have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the spirit and objectives of” this day, Donald Lee, President of the International Committee said in a statement.

The theme for this year’s event will be “Leave no one behind: Think, decide and act together against extreme poverty”, with a public event taking place on Wednesday at the Sheriff Youth Club in Dublin north inner city.

The government has recently been criticsed for a lack of action over growing problems relating to a lack of housing, and the rising number of people sleeping rough.

Inner City Helping Homeless (ICHH) recently said the issue has surpassed “crisis point”.

The government has set a target of 2016 for ending homelessness in Ireland.

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