University of Limerick €11m housing purchase: top official is put on leave as fresh concerns emerge

Move comes after it emerged UL was tipped-off in 2022 about concerns

The UL student homes at Drominbeg Square, Rhebogue, Limerick. Inset: Chief commercial officer Andrew Flaherty

Wayne O'Connnor

A University of Limerick (UL) official who led a controversial overspend on 20 houses near the college has been placed on administrative leave this weekend. Andrew Flaherty, UL’s chief commercial officer (CCO), will not be allowed to participate in any university work or visit its campus during this time, pending the outcome of internal processes and reviews.

Mr Flaherty’s role has been drawn into question in light of concerns about UL’s €11.44m spend on the homes in Rhebogue, 3km from the college. This is €5.2m more than they are worth.