DUNDRUM HOUSE: THE VILLAGE THAT FOUGHT BACK | Margaret Gallagher Interview

What happens when a historic hotel at the heart of a small Irish village becomes the centre of a national controversy?

On MOTH News, Keith Walsh speaks to Margaret Gallagher, a resident of Dundrum, County Tipperary, about the changes her community has experienced since American investors acquired Dundrum House in 2016.

Once a thriving hotel and leisure resort, Dundrum House was a place of employment, weddings, family celebrations and memories for generations of local people.

But its future became increasingly uncertain as the property was used for State-funded refugee and international protection accommodation, while concerns grew about the condition of the historic manor house and the community's lack of involvement in decisions.

Margaret spoke out in 2024 about how local people felt their voices weren't being heard, while also expressing concern for the welfare of those being accommodated at the site.

Now, following a successful planning challenge by local campaigners and the Government's decision not to renew the IPAS accommodation contract, what does the future hold for Dundrum House?

Keith asks Margaret about life in Dundrum before the American takeover, the hopes people had for the hotel, what changed and what she wants to see happen next.

A story about heritage, community, public money and the right of ordinary people to be heard.

MOTH NEWS — Independent news, investigation and conversation.