Dublin criminal Martin Foley was reported to be in a "critical but stable" condition this morning in St James's Hospital, where he is being treated for gunshot wounds.
Mr Foley (55) was shot a number of times in the face and upper body as he left a gym in Kimmage last Saturday. One of the bullets grazed his temple and right eye socket.
Reliable Garda sources last night said that while Mr Foley had stabilised on Sunday and Monday he became gravely ill yesterday and was now being given only a "50-50" chance of survival.
Mr Foley, who has survived four previous shooting attempts on his life, has not regained consciousness since the attack. It is understood he may need to have a kidney and his spleen removed today.
Known as "The Viper", he has more than 40 convictions, some for assault, robbery and possession of threatening weapons.