‘There are times when it suddenly hits me that I have my own place to live’

After years sleeping rough, Cian Murtagh is building stability, community and new traditions in a home of his own

Former homeless man Cian Murtagh at the house in Sligo which was bought for him by members of the Kilbehenny community who started a GoFundMe to buy him the cottage. Photo: James Connolly

Being awoken by fireworks while attempting to sleep through yet another New Year’s Eve on the streets was once a typical occurrence for Meath native Cian Murtagh.

The 31-year-old, however, is now looking forward to ringing in 2026 in the Sligo cottage he calls home. Formerly homeless and sleeping on park benches, Cian has been living in the Sligo residence since October.