Byrne welcomes next step in economic and social regeneration of Inchicore and Kilmainham

Fine Gael TD for Dublin South Central and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Catherine Byrne, has welcomed the appointment of retired Assistant Garda Commissioner, Jack Nolan, to undertake a scoping exercise in the Inchicore and Kilmainham areas.

“Over the past 18 months I have brought serious matters affecting Kilmainham and Inchicore to the attention of the Taoiseach and my Ministerial colleagues out of concern for the community where I live, and a desire to see investment and improvements in the area.

“Last October, I secured a commitment from the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Damien English TD, that his Department would commission a report focusing on the economic and social regeneration of the local community.

“I am delighted that this process is now underway and will inform the development of a strategic social and community plan. There is a very strong sense of community in Inchicore and Kilmainham and the area has a lot to offer, but it has suffered from a lack of investment and proper planning, and faces many challenging social issues.

“I therefore warmly welcome the appointment of retired Assistant Garda Commissioner, Jack Nolan, to complete this important body of work. He comes to this process with a wealth of experience and knowledge, and over the next 3 months he will engage with local residents and stakeholders to identify the difficulties experienced by people living in the local area and to develop a plan to create a viable and sustainable community for the future.

“I am glad to have the support of the Taoiseach and my Ministerial colleagues in this process and I look forward to the findings and recommendations of Mr Nolan.”