Qtr 1 March 2025 Paul Donnelly TD Newsletter

By - Paul Donnelly
02.04.25 03:07 PM

Standing Up for Our Community 
​– Housing, Accountability & Local Updates

Dear Constituent,


I hope this newsletter finds you well. As your local TD, I want to keep you informed about the work I’ve been doing over the past few months on issues that matter most to you – from housing and community safety to government accountability and local initiatives.


In this newsletter, I’ll update you on:

✅ Housing & Homelessness – Holding the government to account on failed policies
✅ Government Transparency – Challenging hypocrisy and political deals
✅ Community Initiatives – Supporting local projects & tackling funding issues
✅ Your Voice Matters – How you can get involved in making change happen


 HOUSING & HOMELESSNESS 

– A BROKEN SYSTEM


The Tenant in Situ scheme has been vital in preventing homelessness, but government mismanagement is putting families at risk. For months, the government has failed to provide councils with targets and funding, leaving tenants in limbo. Additionally, councils are severely restricted in their ability to purchase homes that are being sold, leading to more people being forced out of their homes.


I am demanding that Fine Gael TDs Emer Currie (emer.currie@oir.ie) and Jack Chambers (jack.chambers@oir.ie) support our motion to fix this scheme. If you’ve been affected, please email them directly and cc me to demand action.

 Boarded-Up Homes in Dublin 15 

– A Growing Crisis


During the recent general election, I noticed a significant increase in boarded-up houses across Dublin 15. Residents have told me that some properties have been vacant for years.


 The figures confirm this crisis:

  • In April 2024, there were 24 vacant council homes (voids)

  • By October 2024, this had almost doubled to 44


This is completely unacceptable. I am demanding transparency from Fingal County Council on:


 The number of voids and their locations
 How long each property has been empty
 What funding is available to get them back into use


I am also calling for a dedicated team of council-employed tradespeople to work on these homes, cutting through delays caused by sourcing contractors and procurement processes. Families are waiting, and we must act.

 GOVERNMENT FAILURES & POLITICAL ACCOUNTABILITY


 No Confidence in Ceann Comhairle Selection

The selection of Verona Murphy as Ceann Comhairle was part of the Lowry deal, and it has become clear that she is not impartial.


 The opposition has tabled a motion of no confidence in Murphy, as it is evident she will back the government when needed rather than ensuring fairness in the Dáil.
 Murphy accused the opposition of misogyny to deflect criticism – this is completely unacceptable and must be withdrawn immediately.
 The government has facilitated Michael Lowry’s backroom deal without disclosing its contents to the public.


I will not stand by while this government makes shady deals that undermine our democracy. Do you agree that Verona Murphy should step down? Let me know your thoughts.


 CLARIFYING THE IPAS CENTRE 

IN DUBLIN 15


Recently, there has been confusion over a “new” IPAS migrant centre in Dublin 15. Let me be very clear and factual:


 The Travelodge in Castleknock, which has been in place for years.
 The 12th Lock Homeless Hub is not for migrants – it is exclusively for people on Fingal County Council’s social housing list who have been made homeless by landlords.
 The old School of Horology in Blanchardstown Village has been used for decades to temporarily house schools waiting for new buildings.
 Since 2022, it has been used to house Ukrainian refugees and other asylum seekers under state ownership.


 Latest Update from the Department:

  • The current contract for the site is up for renewal.

  • The buildings need upgrades to meet regulations and improve living conditions.

  • The centre will remain under state ownership (Dublin & Dun Laoghaire ETB).

I will continue to monitor this and provide updates as I receive them. Transparency is key, and I will ensure our community is informed.

 COMMUNITY INITIATIVES 

& LOCAL UPDATES


 Supporting Local Groups & Volunteers

I recently joined Clonsilla Tidy Towns for a clean-up day, removing cable ties and helping with planting. A big thank you to all the volunteers making a real difference. It was great to finish up with a cuppa and a chat at the Clonsilla Inn!


 Fighting for Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living

Blanchardstown Centre for Independent Living provides essential services to people with disabilities, but funding has not kept up with demand:


 2018: 36 service users → 2024: 150 service users ( 400% increase!)
 2018: 33 transport needs → 2024: 302 transport needs
 Funding increase? Just €2,000 in six years!


This is an insult to those who rely on these services. I am fighting for proper funding so that our most vulnerable get the support they need.


------

 Easter Draw – Your Chance to Win!

With Easter approaching, we are holding an Easter Draw to raise much-needed funds for our party. Tickets are only €10, and you could win:


 Top Prize: €500
 Second Prize: Easter Hamper worth €250


Your support will help us continue our fight for fairness and justice. Get your ticket today!

Buy Raffle Ticket


​📅 WHAT’S NEXT?

✅ Pushing for a housing policy reset – this crisis won’t end until the government accepts its failures.
✅ Demanding accountability – from energy costs to social funding, we will keep up the pressure.
✅ Fighting for fair funding – community organisations and essential services deserve better.
✅ Holding clinics & public meetings – I am always available to hear your concerns directly.

📬 GET IN TOUCH

Your voice matters. If you have any concerns, need assistance, or want to discuss any of the issues above, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

📞 Phone: 01 811 1893
📍 Constituency Office:  Unit 1, Parkside, Phase 2, Mulhuddart Village, Dublin 15. D15 P97Y
✉️ Email: paul.donnelly@oir.ie
🔗 Follow me on social media: https://www.facebook.com/PaulDonnellySF/



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Paul Donnelly

Paul Donnelly

Sinn Féin T.D. | Vote 1 DONNELLY, Paul
https://www.pauldonnellytd.ie/

Fighting for affordable housing, better healthcare, and community development across Blanchardstown, Castleknock, Mulhuddart, Clonsilla, Ongar, Tyrrelstown, Hollystown and all of Dublin West.

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