Protection money was being paid by Dublin City Council to gangland figures to stop antisocial attacks, according to a case before the courts.
Three firms, who were building homes for the local authority in Dublin, paid criminals to keep construction workers safe on site.
Yesterday during a case, involving the Criminal Assets Bureau, the High Court heard 'security' or 'protection money' was being paid to gangland figures to allow social housing be built in Cherry Orchard.
Three firms, who were delivering the homes for Dublin city council, were handing over between 12 and 15 hundred euro a week to stop attacks on workers, the court was told.
It also heard officials from the council were aware and recommended the money was paid.
Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy acknowledged DCC is investigating the matter and will report back to him.
