Dublin City Council is being forced to shell out millions of euro in compensation because far too many of its footpaths are in a “catastrophic” condition. 

New figures obtained by the Journal have revealed the scale of compensation paid out to those injured because of falls and accidents on badly maintained pavements. 

In total, €18 million was paid out in 2023, 2024 and the first nine months of 2025. 

On Lunchtime Live, independent Councillor Mannix Flynn said people’s safety is at risk. 

 “People are having really serious falls and serious injuries,” he said. 

“The problem for us is that the footpaths are being constantly dug up, cars are constantly parking on them and there really isn't a massive programme for fixing footpaths. 

“I mean, there's so many obstacles out there and elderly people, people who are able-bodied, people who have got disabilities, are having serious injuries.”

Cllr Flynn continued that he had met some Dubliners who suffered such serious falls that it has left them concerned at the idea of leaving their homes. 

“I met a man recently who fell and smashed his face off the elevator,” he said. 

“The trauma that that man is going through because he won't go out of his house now.

“I met another individual who had to go and meet in a cafe because he was too nervous to walk down the street because it was actually very greasy, the footpath, and he didn't want to slip because of the leaves all over it.

“Stuff like that is a major problem.”

'Money is like confetti in Dublin City Council'

Cllr Flynn said he would like to see more focusing on keeping footpaths in good condition, something that would reduce the need for expensive payouts in the future. 

“There isn't a series of public domain officers going out there and identifying where these issues are,” he said. 

“It's catastrophic in the housing estates and in the blocks of flats because they're totally dilapidated.

“So, the €18 million, you know, you think with money is like confetti in Dublin City Council.”

Main image: A badly damaged road. Picture by: Alamy.com.