Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 December 2025
405. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the amount paid for the purchase of a facility (details supplied) in 2025; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67605/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraCabinet approval for the State purchase of the Citywest Hotel and Convention Centre for international protection accommodation was secured this year on 17 June 2025 and the sale was completed in August 2025.
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.
The purchase of the site is a key part of the Government’s strategy to develop more State-owned accommodation, building a stable and sustainable accommodation system for people seeking international protection, and reducing reliance on commercial centres.
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.
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.
