booting out several homeless citizens from their Hamilton shelter on Christmas Day.

Major Hale said: "It was a miscommunication. On Christmas Day or any other holiday they have the freedom to remain.

"On other days they have to leave at 8 a.m. -- they can then come back for lunch and dinner.

"But the message didn't get through -- we had inexperienced staff on, you would think at Christmas there would be a little bit more compassion.

"Three or four were inconvenienced -- I can understand perfectly why they were not pleased. I regret it happened on Christmas Day.'' HOUSING HSG