One of Dublin’s largest homeless hostels is set to close following fire safety concerns, placing additional strain on already stretched emergency accommodation services in the capital.
The 125-bed men’s hostel, located near St Stephen’s Green, is being vacated in phases. The facility is currently housing 48 residents, all of whom are expected to be relocated by the end of the month.
A spokesperson for the Peter McVerry Trust confirmed that a fire safety notice had been issued in relation to the short-term accommodation service, where residents can typically stay for up to six months. “We are actively engaging with Dublin Fire Brigade and all relevant parties to address the issues raised, and we have made significant progress in recent months toward resolving them,” she said.
“The matters involved are complex, and we have followed all guidance provided throughout this process. We have also taken steps to reduce occupancy in recent months as a precaution,” she added.
The spokesperson emphasised that safety had not been compromised. “At no point has any service user or staff member been placed at risk. We are committed to resolving this matter and have lodged an appeal to ensure the continued operation of this vital service.”
She said it was not yet clear when the hostel might reopen.
All affected residents are being moved either to alternative accommodation within the charity’s network or to placements arranged by the Dublin Region Homeless Executive (DRHE).
Dublin City Council confirmed that efforts are underway to minimise disruption. “The DRHE is arranging alternative placements for the remaining residents. This is being managed with the least disruption possible to service users,” a council spokesperson said.
The closure represents a significant loss of capacity, accounting for nearly one-fifth of the trust’s 676 emergency beds for single adults. It comes at a time of mounting pressure on homelessness services across Dublin.
In correspondence with the Department of Housing late last year, DRHE director Mary Hayes warned of severe challenges in meeting demand. “The picture is stark for family homelessness,” she wrote, adding that emergency accommodation was “overstretched” and expressing concern about the possibility of families facing homelessness on the streets in 2026.
Latest figures from the Department show that 12,317 people were living in emergency accommodation in Dublin during a week in February, including more than 4,000 children.
Founded in the 1980s by Peter McVerry, the Peter McVerry Trust is one of Ireland’s most prominent housing charities, supporting thousands of individuals and families.
However, the organisation has faced significant scrutiny in recent years. Financial difficulties prompted a €15 million government bailout two years ago, while subsequent reports from regulators and the Comptroller and Auditor General highlighted concerns around governance and financial oversight.
