Dublin Taskforce will provide focus to deliver change for the city

The appointment of a new Dublin City Taskforce is a welcome and crucial step in revitalising and restoring the capital city, Fine Gael representatives have said.

The High-Level Taskforce will make clear and concrete recommendations on improving the city centre’s public realm, safety and experience within a 12 week timeframe.

The news comes after An Taoiseach, Simon Harris, met with Fine Gael Senator and European election candidate, Regina Doherty and Fine Gael Dublin City Councillors last weekend to discuss their priorities for theTaskforce.

Fine Gael Group Leader on Dublin City Council and General Election candidate for Dublin Bay South, James Geoghegan said:

“This taskforce, led by the Taoiseach, is long overdue for Dublin City Centre. It is something that is welcomed by management in Dublin City Council, and it will provide the level of focus that is needed to effect real change to our city.”

North Inner City Fine Gael Councillor Ray McAdam said:

“The establishment today of the Dublin City Centre is welcome as it will provide an opportunity for a whole of Government approach to tackling the challenges faced by city centre communities and businesses. Fine Gael Councillors have long argued that this type of approach is needed in order to reimagine our City Centre as a vibrant and dynamic city and one that is safe and secure for all.

“Our City Centre is the engine room of Dublin. Dublin is the engine room of our country. We must act to protect it, better maintain it and through the work of the Taskforce, we will strengthen it.

“For far too long our city centre has been dominated by images of anti-social behaviour. It is time to paint a new picture and reclaim our city for everyone to enjoy.”

Senator Regina Doherty said: ““Dublin city centre should be a dynamic and welcoming place for residents, commuters, and visitors and one that offers a great quality of life. People have every right to feel safe and secure on the streets of our capital city. Unfortunately it hasn’t been like this in recent times.

“I welcome the commitment to take firm action to restore our city centre. The work of the Taskforce will be very important, particularly in working with residents, stakeholders, and the Gardaí and I wish David McRedmond well in his new role as Independent Chair of the Taskforce. I am sure that this will be a crucial step in revitalising and restoring the welcoming and respectful values that people want to see at the heart of Dublin city.”