C&AG: Number of OPW retirees living in its residential properties in Phoenix Park jumps by 83%

Spa Lodge in the Phoenix Park was used to accommodate former Garda Commissioner Drew Harris but is now vacant despite €600,000 spent on refurbishments and security upgrades.

The number of retirees from the Office of Public Works living in its residential properties in the Phoenix Park jumped by 83% from 2015 — in direct contravention of the agency’s own policies.

An investigation by the Comptroller and Auditor General found since the OPW established a residential property management policy in 2015 — requiring all retiring employees must vacate the premises they rent from the agency — the number of such workers has ballooned.