€15 million bailout for Peter McVerry Trust

Housing Minister Darragh O’Brien has received Cabinet approval for a €15 million bailout for the Peter McVerry Trust as the charity deals with financial issues.

The funding, which was secured by Minister O’Brien on an exceptional basis, will be provided monthly between December and March.

The funding is conditional on the implementation of significant reform and the trust has undertaken to put in place improved budgetary and management processes.

The trust is due to provide a detailed plan for the future by February next year, according to a Government spokesperson.

Independent Senator Victor Boyhan, who sits on the Committee on Housing, Local Government and Heritage raised the matter in Seanad Eireann.

“I am delighted that Government have granted the funding request which I understand will be released on a phased basis to assist the homelessness charity continue its vital work,” he said.

“The charity wrote to the Government requesting a bailout so that it could continue to provide its range of housing support advocacy services.”

The Senator Boyhan praised Fr Peter McVerry and the McVerry Trust for their work with homeless people and have worked collaboratively with Local Government and other State Agencies.

“The charity needs Government support now to continue its work and advocacy,” he said.

“Yes, corporate governance issues will have to be examined and indeed strengthened and confidence rebuilt and that any additional money granted must come with conditions”.