Dublin City Council has formally inaugurated a new social housing development at St Finbar's Court in Dublin 7, providing 46 high-quality homes specifically designed for senior citizens.

The project was officially launched by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, alongside James Browne, T.D., Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and Kieran O'Donnell T.D., Minister of State for Older People and Housing. The event was attended by public representatives, officials, and the residents who have now fully occupied the scheme.

Replacing a previous housing complex, the new development focuses on creating a sustainable and inclusive environment. In addition to the modern residential units, the site features a landscaped courtyard and a new community centre designed to serve both the residents of St Finbar's Court and the broader Dublin 7 area.

Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam said: "Today is a proud day for Cabra and for Dublin. St Finbar's Court represents exactly the kind of city we are building, a living city where people can age with dignity, security and independence in the communities they know and love. These 46 beautiful, energy efficient homes are not just bricks and mortar. They are homes filled with possibility. They allow older Dubliners to remain connected to neighbours, family, local shops and transport, while enjoying modern, accessible design built to the highest standards. As Lord Mayor, I am determined that we continue to deliver high quality social housing in every corner of our city. St Finbar's Court shows what can be achieved when Dublin City Council, Government and the construction sector work together with purpose and ambition. Most importantly, this development strengthens the heart of Cabra. A new courtyard, a new community space and 46 new front doors mean 46 new stories beginning here today. That is something worth celebrating."

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The construction adheres to A-rated energy standards, with each home featuring own-door access and a choice of private balconies or gardens. The scheme was built with universal design at its core, meeting the spatial recommendations of the National Disability Authority's Buildings for Everyone.

Ground floor units are fully accessible for wheelchair users and can be adapted for wheelchair-dependable living in the future. Furthermore, level access is maintained throughout both the internal and external areas of the scheme, including all facilities within the community building.

Key highlights of the development include communal green spaces and proximity to transport links, providing residents with easy access to city centre amenities, shops, and services. The project was delivered by Dublin City Council with funding from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The design and construction were managed by a team led by Seán Harrington Architects and Townlink Construction.

James Browne, T.D., Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage said: "I want to see more of this type of development delivered. This is an example of Government, Local Authorities, and the construction sector working together to deliver high-quality, inclusive housing. These 46 new homes for older people reflect our commitment to building communities that are safe, sustainable, and accessible. The dignity of your own door is essential for people and I want to make that a reality."

Kieran O'Donnell, T.D., Minister of State for Older People and Housing said: "St. Finbar's Court, here in Cabra and the many other projects in progress across the country, demonstrate in a very tangible way, Government's commitment to and support for the construction of social housing. I am particularly pleased that this new development will provide 46 much needed homes for older people. Ireland has an ageing population, requiring more developments for older people like St. Finbar's Court and I want to acknowledge the work of Dublin City Council in planning and bringing forward housing projects of such high calibre for older people."

Mick Mulhern, Dublin City Council Assistant Chief Executive, added: "I'm delighted to mark the official opening of this fantastic new housing development in St. Finbar's Court. This development will add significantly to what is an already thriving community and will provide much needed new social homes for our senior citizens in Dubin 7. I would like to thank the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Townlink Construction, and Seán Harrington Architects for working with us on this project. Finally, I would like to extend my best wishes to all the new residents as they embark on this exciting new chapter in their new homes."