Taoiseach meets with city councillors to discuss priorities for Dublin

A Dublin City Taskforce charged with breathing new life into the capital city must deliver its recommendations in a tight timeframe, Fine Gael Dublin City Councillors have said.

An Taoiseach, Simon Harris, has met with Fine Gael Senator and European election candidate, Regina Doherty and Fine Gael Dublin City Councillors in Dublin city to discuss their priorities for the capital.

Speaking after the meeting, Fine Gael Group Leader on Dublin City Council and General Election candidate for Dublin Bay South, James Geoghegan, welcomed the Taskforce and said it is time to deliver “an urban renaissance” for Dublin city.

“We need big ideas to transform both the image and the reality of our city centre. It is over thirty years ago since Dublin was the European capital of culture. During that time, we saw a real focus on urban renewal in parts of our city that were previously run down, including Temple Bar. We need that level of joined up thinking and ambition today.

“The Taoiseach’s taskforce provides the foundations to drive a Dublin renaissance within our city centre, and in particular to places like O’Connell Street and Talbot Street.”

North Inner City Fine Gael Councillor Ray McAdam said the success of the Taskforce is dependent upon the continuation of a more visible Garda presence.

“Last week, the Taoiseach heard first hand from North Inner City residents, home-owners and council tenants as well as local businesses owners about their day to day experience of increased drug use and dealing.

“We all have enormous ambition for our city, but public safety must be at the core of every decision we make for Dublin.”

Senator Regina Doherty said: “As someone who was born and bred in Dublin, I have always been immensely proud of my city and it’s been difficult to see its reputation take a hammering, as well as rising concerns about safety on our streets. People have a right to feel safe in their communities.

“There is a huge amount of work to be done to revive Dublin’s unique character and charm for the good of all its people. We cannot have a strong society without assuring people’s security. I have no doubt that the Taskforce has got to hit the ground running. I welcome its establishment and I know this signals a new era of ambition and revival for Dublin, and all who know and love this place.”