Cork Simon Community maximised all their resources to support more than 1,300 people last year but the shelter was still forced to turn away 300 people because of a shortage of facilities, the charity's annual report revealed yesterday.
The group's director, Colette Kelleher, described 2006 as "possibly the community's most challenging year yet". Last year Cork Simon provided more people than ever before with emergency accommodation - almost 500 people, a 17 per cent increase on 2005.
However, Ms Kelleher said shelter staff were saddened at having to turn away people because of a lack of facilities.
"We used every resource available to us, yet people ended up sleeping on the street.
"There is a clear need to examine the provision of emergency accommodation in the city so that we can at least offer everyone who needs it a roof over their head and a bed for the night."
Ms Kelleher said many people needed short-term assistance - medical attention, a few nights' emergency accommodation or help with accessing some basic supports.
However, a significant number had a range of more complex needs - physical and mental health issues, destitution, addiction issues, a lack of any meaningful family or moral support. Their circumstances were complicated further by a shortage of suitable accommodation that would suit their needs and help them to live in dignity and comfort. Ms Kelleher said their only option was the emergency shelter.