Ireland’s largest provider of homelessness, accommodation and related specialised services, Peter McVerry Trust, has announced the appointment of Tony O’Brien as the new Chairperson of its Board of Directors, effective from Thursday 1 May.

Peter McVerry Trust has also signalled that its founder, Fr Peter McVerry has informed them of his intention to step down as a member of the Board of Directors at the end of June. Fr McVerry will continue to play a key central role in the day-to-day work of the organisation, with an increased focus and emphasis on his work in the areas of advocacy, policy and fundraising.

Mr. O’Brien, former Director General of the Health Service Executive (HSE), brings a wealth of experience in healthcare, social and community services, organisational leadership, and corporate governance to the role. He served as the Director General of the HSE from 2013 to 2018, overseeing Ireland’s health and social care services during a period of significant transformation.

In addition to his role at the HSE, Mr O’Brien held several senior leadership positions, including Chief Executive of the National Cancer Screening Service, Chief Executive of the Irish Family Planning Association, and Chief Operating Officer of the Department of Health’s Special Delivery Unit. He currently lectures in Health Strategy at Trinity College Dublin and is a speaker and media contributor on healthcare and leadership issues.

Founded in 1983, Peter McVerry Trust is one of Ireland’s leading national housing and homelessness charities, providing services to over 12,000 people annually. The organisation primarily works with younger people and vulnerable adults with complex needs across its services which include homelessness, housing, addiction, education, aftercare and housing first.

Appointment marks new chapter of leadership and governance renewal

Announcing the appointment, a spokesperson for the Peter McVerry Trust board said:

“This appointment represents another important step in the leadership, governance, and organisational reset we are undertaking. Tony O’Brien brings significant and relevant experience to Peter McVerry Trust at a pivotal time. Strong governance structures, supported by effective practices and procedures, are essential to ensuring we meet the highest operational and regulatory standards.”

Fr. Peter McVerry, founder of Peter McVerry Trust, commented on the appointment:

“I warmly welcome Tony as the new chair of Peter McVerry Trust. His vast experience and commitment to the ethos of the Trust will greatly support and enhance our work with the most vulnerable homeless people who continue to benefit from our accommodation, drug and alcohol treatment services and mental health supports. I appreciate his acceptance of this role which will strengthen the board and greatly support the work of our staff. I would also like to acknowledge the significant work carried out by Peter McVerry Trust, the Board and the former Chairperson over the last number of years. Their dedication to our ethos and our participants has been invaluable.

“In agreement with the Trust, I will be stepping down from my position on the board at the end of June to take on an increasingly active role in our advocacy, fundraising, and policy work—work that continues to be grounded in the organisation’s enduring values of social justice and respect for all those who rely on our services.”

Commenting on the appointment, Tony O’Brien said:

“The work of Peter McVerry Trust is pivotal to the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in society. Its services and expertise are central to meeting one of the greatest challenges we face as a country. From my conversations with the board and executive, it was clear that the organisation remains rooted in a deep sense of purpose, compassion, and social responsibility—true to its founding principles. There is also a clear and honest recognition of past governance shortcomings and a shared understanding of the need to restore trust. I believe that, together, we can re-establish regulatory, funder and public confidence. I want to thank Peter, the Trustees, and the Executive for their warm welcome, and I look forward to supporting the organisation and all of its people as we continue with our essential work.”