Homeless couple agree to leave offices of South Dublin County Council

A couple who have been sleeping in a tent since becoming homeless several weeks ago have agreed to comply with a High Court injunction directing them to leave the offices of South Dublin County Council.

Alan Murphy and his partner Kelly Gilsenan had refused to leave the council’s offices last Wednesday and remained there until the local authority obtained a temporary High Court order directing them to leave the premises in Tallaght.

The order was granted after the High Court was told they had refused an offer of temporary emergency accommodation in a hostel from the local authority because it was not suitable for their needs.

Mr Murphy said he had a medical condition and he and his partner needed somewhere “safe” to stay. He also wanted his six-year-old son to be able to come and visit him. Ms Gilsenan told the court they had “nowhere to go” and all they were seeking was suitable accommodation.

The matter was adjourned after Carol O’Farrell, for the council, said it had accommodation for the couple for last night and would meet them at 10am today.