Government vows to make its inner city plan work

THE Government is committed to tackling the problems that decades of underinvestment have caused in the north inner city, according to a Northside minister. 

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, was speaking after Taoiseach Enda Kenny visited the area to announce details of an ambitious plan to bring hope to a part of the city ravaged by drugs, crime and unemployment.

Minister Donohoe said he very much welcomed the plan and believes it will improve the lives of people living in the north inner city. 

“I and my Fine Gael colleague, Cllr Ray McAdam, will ensure that this new investment will make a real difference,” he said. 

The measures include:

• An additional €1 million package of investment in sports facilities and projects in the area – to be made available for the duration of 2016.

• An extra €500,000 for small scale physical investments (focused on clean up of graffiti, derelict sites, litter) and local community and youth projects.

• Additional funding of €100,000 for supports for drug related projects in the area.

• Investment in arts-related projects. 

• Several new initiatives to support schools and young people in the north east inner city.

One of the most significant measures in the plan is the proposed re-opening of Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station.

The Taoiseach said that in consultation with the Garda Commissioner, it has been decided to re-open the station, and work will commence in the second half of this year.

Speaking at St Laurence O’Toole’s National School in Seville Place, Deputy Kenny said during his visits he has listened carefully to the views of local residents and groups. 

“It was clear to me that a significant amount of great work is being done in this area,” he said.

“What is also clear is the dedication and great spirit of the local community.

“However, the north east inner city faces profound challenges despite the great efforts and strengths of so many people. 

“The taskforce seeks to protect and invest in this community, in their lives today, and in their futures. 

“Its main objective is to recommend and implement measures for the long-term economic and social regeneration of this area – with a 10-year timeframe in mind.” 

Deputy Kenny added: “I remain personally committed to this initiative and I intend to keep visiting the area myself.”

Local councillor Nial Ring (Ind) said the community, local representatives and the gardai would particularly welcome the re-opening of Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station. 

“This is the stand out announcement in terms of physical and psychological impact,” said Cllr Ring.

“The overall community response to the Taoiseach’s announcements was positive. He is seen to have delivered on the short-term requirements of the community as well as having, through the appointment of Kieran Mulvey, ensured that a medium to long-term strategy would be formulated and implemented.” 

Kieran Mulvey will be working closely with the community and public representatives on the plan.  

“The fact that Kieran Mulvey is committed to report back to Government by the end of November is also very encouraging,” added Cllr Ring.

Former Labour TD for the area, Joe Costello, said the taskforce is to be welcomed.

“It should be given a time span of approximately 10 years, and have a short and long-term agenda with fixed targets,” he said.

“It should report directly to the Taoiseach and to the relevant Joint Oireachtas Committee to ensure that targets are met and commitments are honoured.”

Mr Costello, Labour’s spokesperson on urban regeneration, said it’s important that the taskforce is effective and does not become a “talking shop”. 

“The fragility of the present Government and time span required to carry out the necessary work makes it imperative that the taskforce is supported by all the major political parties in the Dáil,” he added.