Collins welcomes housing breakthrough for 88-year-old Jennifer Marley
“Jennifer’s case should never have come to this — but today, we celebrate a result, and a reminder of what’s possible when compassion and determination lead the way.”
Independent Ireland leader Michael Collins TD has confirmed that a suitable home has been secured for 88-year-old Jennifer Marley, following weeks of intensive work by his constituency team and the support of a local Approved Housing Body in Bantry.
Deputy Collins said he was “delighted and relieved” that a positive resolution has been found for Jennifer, whose housing situation had become increasingly precarious in recent weeks and whose plight had to be raised on the floor of the Dáil to draw urgent attention.
“Jennifer’s story touched hearts across the country — and rightly so. No woman of 88 years should be left in such uncertainty. It should never have taken a public outcry or a speech in the Dáil to get action. But I’m proud of the work my team has done, and deeply grateful to the Approved Housing Body in Bantry whose commitment and care made this possible,” said Deputy Collins.
The new housing arrangement, confirmed today, will allow Ms Marley to live with dignity and security — something Deputy Collins said “every citizen in this country should be entitled to, no matter their age or background”.
A wider crisis
While welcoming the outcome for Jennifer and her family, Deputy Collins said her experience reflected a broader failure in Government housing policy.
“Jennifer Marley is not alone. There are many like her, quietly enduring, hoping for a break that too often never comes. This is not a one-off hardship – it is a symptom of a housing system that is simply not working, especially for our most vulnerable.”
“From the youngest to the oldest, people in Ireland are being failed. This Government is out of ideas, out of touch, and seemingly out of interest when it comes to the real lives behind the statistics. The government had an opportunity yesterday to tackle this crisis head on by approving our motion on the housing emergency but voted it down. This is unfortunately what we are dealing with, a government that refuses to accept positive solutions to what people are facing out there”
Thanks and congratulations
Deputy Collins offered his congratulations to Ms Marley and her family on today’s development.
“I want to congratulate Jennifer on this outcome, and wish her many happy and comfortable years in her new home. It has been a privilege to support her. I also want to thank the housing body in Bantry – the work they do, quietly and without fanfare, is phenomenal.”
“Jennifer’s case proves what’s possible when the will exists. Let it be a turning point.” he concluded
