Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien has officially opened Focus Housing Association new 20-unit development at Connaught Street which is providing homes for families and individuals in Phibsboro, Dublin.

The transformation of the Connaught Street site from a disused tire yard into a much-needed apartment complex is a testament to Focus Housing Association’s commitment to revitalising communities.

Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan said: "The 20 homes we are delivering in partnership with Dublin City Council, Housing Finance Agency, The Housing Agency and The Department of Housing means 20 more households (families and individuals) have a place to call home. It is rewarding to see the most basic and fundamental need of their own roof over their head met as this development provides homes and has ended homelessness for some of the new tenants."

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He added: "This innovative development uses the Meascan Model of intentional social mix in housing which includes people leaving homelessness who may need ongoing support and others from the housing waiting lists who just need a home. This approach helps to provide vibrant, sustainable communities while providing ongoing tenancy support for individuals with past experiences of homelessness or those at risk. This model ensures that every resident is aware of the potential challenges faced by some of their neighbors and that support is readily available to all.

"We're also thrilled to share that Focus Ireland has successfully delivered over 1,400 homes, a testament to our unwavering dedication to our strategic goals. Amidst the challenge of record homelessness, these homes not only signify progress but also stand as a beacon of hope, addressing housing needs and embodying our commitment to help vulnerable families and individuals every day."

Minister Darragh O’Brien said: "I am always heartened to see new developments like these, making efficient use of what was once a disused site and which allow households to live within walking distance of all the amenities they need. I commend Dublin City Council and Focus Ireland for their hard work in delivering these top-quality homes in the heart of Dublin and for their continued efforts in assisting us to achieve the objectives of Housing for All. All of our efforts are focussed on increasing the supply of new homes. Homelessness remains the number one challenge for this Government and how we solve this is by increasing the supply of high quality social and affordable homes and that is what we are doing."