At least 100 people are sleeping rough in Dublin City, according to findings from the Homeless Agency.
The agency also found more than half of all hostels used to accommodate those in need in the capital last year were unsuitable.
The report said a quarter of the 16 emergency facilities do not meet fire safety standards and are a risk to residents and staff.
The findings were made public as the charity unveiled a three-step programme that aims to ensure long-term homelessness and rough sleeping will be eliminated in Dublin by 2010.
Cathal Morgan, Director of the Homeless Agency, said for the first time ever teams of outreach workers and community gardaí counted 104 people sleeping rough on November 20th around the canals, outer suburban areas, the docklands and Phoenix Park.
In 2005, 185 people reported themselves to the agency that they were sleeping on the streets.
An audit of 16 emergency homeless services in the Dublin area found the standard of accommodation in nine was rated as poor or very poor, with two of those in such poor condition they were served with fire safety notices last December.
The agency said although a number of hostels have since been renovated, with plans in place for others to be refurbished, money was needed to upgrade facilities for the homeless.
PA