Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 October 2025
396. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if the Comptroller & Auditor General or an independent external auditor has reviewed the value-for-money assessment underpinning the €148m purchase of a facility (details supplied); and to publish the detailed methodology used to support the claim that the purchase price will be recouped within four years.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53087/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, Cabinet approval for the State purchase of the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre for international protection accommodation was secured this year, on 17 June 2025.
The purchase of the site is a key part of the Government’s strategy to develop a stable and sustainable accommodation system for people seeking international protection. State-owned centres are part of the Government’s long-term plan to reduce the reliance on private accommodation providers resulting in better value for money of public funds and a more efficient international protection system.
The purchase was approved following an extensive due diligence process, including appropriate survey, legal review and independent valuation, in line with the Government Infrastructure Guidelines. These guidelines set out the value for money guidelines for the evaluation, planning and management of public investment projects, including purchase or acquisitions of assets or shareholdings, in Ireland.
The full purchase price for the Citywest centre (including VAT) was €148,253,530 which is in line with the Government decision of 17 June 2025.
Compared to the costs of the previous leasing model, the savings to the State will pay back the purchase price within 4 years.
This estimate is based on expenditure in 2024 under the previous leasing model for accommodation for people from Ukraine and international protection at this location. It also includes consideration of the ongoing running costs to the State of providing accommodation at the site after the purchase.
The purchase model represents prudent financial sense for the State in this regard, while also delivering a permanent State asset.
As the purchase expenditure was incurred in 2025, it will form part of the 2025 Appropriation Account in due course which will be subject to audit by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) next year.
