Peter McVerry Trust, the national housing and homeless charity, has issued a short statement in response to speculation about an incident involving the charity’s founder, Fr Peter McVerry.

Pat Doyle, CEO of the charity said “In light of speculation locally and on foot of media queries we can confirm that Peter was involved in minor incident at his home in recent days.”

“In the early hours of Wednesday morning, Fr Peter McVerry opened his door to an individual knocking for help. It soon became clear that the person was affected by drugs and alcohol.”

In the brief interaction that followed Fr Peter McVerry sustained minor injuries leading to bruising on his face, particularly around one eye. After this brief engagement the person left. Gardai were not called.”

On learning of the incident, the Peter McVerry Trust’s CEO, Pat Doyle, presented immediately to Peter and offered support and first aid advice.

Mr Doyle said “We are issuing this statement to offer clarity on Peter’s wellbeing. Peter is recovering from his injuries, which were thankfully only superficial and did not result in hospitalisation or attendance at A&E. Peter McVerry Trust continues to offer every support to Peter.”

“Peter is already back carrying out, and focusing on, his work to help vulnerable people impacted by homelessness and addiction.”

“The person has since realised the impact of their actions and has presented and apologised to Peter. There will be no Gardai involvement and Peter considers the matter closed. On behalf of Peter we would appeal for the media and public to respect his privacy at this time. Neither Peter nor the charity will be commenting further on this matter.”

“Peter has stressed that this is only the second time in 40 years that he has been assaulted and that he does not want this incident to distract from the issue of homelessness and people impacted by it.”