McAleese to launch facility for homeless in Dublin

A €15m facility that combines homeless accommodation with a sports centre for local people in Dublin's city centre is to be launched by President Mary McAleese.

The housing, training and support centre called the Foyer, is for young homeless people aged 18 to 25 to assist them in the transition from dependent to independent living.

Located on the site of the old Player Wills Factory at Marrowbone Lane, Dublin 8, the facility will be managed by the Cara Housing Association in partnership with Dublin City Council, who provided the site.

The adjoining St Catherine's Sports Centre comprises a 600 square meter sports hall with seating for 200 people.

Brendan Kenny, Assistant City Manager with Dublin City Council said: "Dublin City Council has long recognized the necessity of taking a wider view in tackling housing need and our financial assistance for this development is part of a wider strategy to address homelessness and prevent

people returning to the streets.

"We are delighted that Cara Housing Association has brought its expertise and knowledge to this project," Kenny added.