Capuchin Day Centre manager retires after 54 years

Emotional scenes marked Alan Bailey's final full day at Dublin's Capuchin Day Centre, where he has worked and volunteered for 54 years. Bailey, who is retiring tomorrow, recalled his first day in 1972 after being recruited by Brother Kevin Crowley. "I was totally blown away," he said, describing how his sheltered country background contrasted sharply with the "serious problem with homelessness and addiction" he encountered in Dublin.

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I was totally blown away. I came up from the country, from a very sheltered background in many ways. Within days of coming to Dublin, I never realised there was such a serious problem with homelessness and addiction.

Over his decades at the center, Bailey witnessed the impact of various crises, including economic downturns and the current cost of living crisis. He noted that the center now distributes around 1,000 hot meals daily. "When you think about how the Irish economy is going, it’s sad that we have people outside queuing every day," he commented.

Bailey's tenure included a highlight visit from Pope Francis in 2018, who entered through the same door as the center's clients. He expressed pride in his time at the center, singling out the volunteers and benefactors for keeping it operational. "I’ve made some very good friends here amongst our guests at the centre, with the staff and the volunteers," he said.

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When you think about how the Irish economy is going, it’s sad that we have people outside queuing every day.

Despite the continued need for the Capuchin Day Centre, Bailey reflected on Brother Kevin's original ambition to close it once it was no longer necessary. "That would not be happening now," Bailey stated, underscoring the persistent demand for the charity's services.

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I’ve made some very good friends here amongst our guests at the centre, with the staff and the volunteers.