Gardaí search five properties in escalation of Peter McVerry Trust investigation – The Irish Times

Gardaí have intensified their criminal investigation into the Peter McVerry Trust (PMVT), conducting searches at five locations and making direct contact with the charity in recent days.

Peter McVerry Trust Investigation Deepens

The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau initiated the investigation in September following a six-month evaluation of the trust’s affairs. Members of the Corporate Enforcement Authority, Ireland’s corporate watchdog, are also involved in the inquiry.

On December 12th, 2025, Gardaí, assisted by the Corporate Enforcement Agency, searched five premises in Dublin, Kildare, and Tipperary, seizing items of “evidential value.” The locations of the premises were not disclosed, but it is understood PMVT’s office was not among them.

No arrests have been made at this time, and the investigation is ongoing, according to a Garda statement.

The Peter McVerry Trust, founded in the 1980s by Jesuit priest Fr Peter McVerry, provides housing and services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The organization received a €15 million government lifeline two years ago to avert potential collapse due to financial difficulties.

In October, PMVT disclosed to Gardaí, through solicitors Mason Hayes & Curran, information relating to invoices issued by a contractor. This disclosure was made under section 19 of the Criminal Justice Act, which concerns the withholding of information relevant to a potential prosecution.

Previously, PMVT stated that An Garda Síochána had not directly contacted the trust. However, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau has since made direct contact with the organization.

PMVT stated that the initial disclosure of invoice-related matters was a “prudent and precautionary measure” given information with potential legal implications. The trust confirmed its commitment to fully cooperate with the Gardaí and welcomed the investigation.

Reports from housing and charity regulators, as well as the Comptroller and Auditor General, have previously criticized misgovernance and lax financial controls within PMVT. Between 2018 and 2022, the trust received €164.3 million in State funding and €72.6 million in donations. Donations have since significantly decreased, making the organization almost entirely reliant on State funding.