Investment urged for local communities in North Fringe

THE Government is being urged to provide increased investment for the North Fringe which includes the Clongriffin and Belmayne areas. 

Dublin Bay North TD Tommy Broughan (Ind) has raised the issue with the Taoiseach, Minister for Justice Charlie Flanagan and Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring.

Deputy Broughan warned that if investment is not forthcoming for community facilities in the next year or two, “we could lose the area and would then be facing remedial measures which we do not want”. 

“I have been consistently calling on the Government to provide increased investment into areas of Dublin Bay North, including more resources for An Garda Síochána, health and safety measures around local transport hubs, more school places and improved community amenities,” said Deputy Broughan.

“I have been meeting with residents’ representatives and liaising with them about the needs of the area.

“Up to 20,000 people live in areas such as Clongriffin, Belmayne, The Coast and Burnell, yet we do not have many of the key services one would expect in such a big district such as education, health, sport and recreation.

“People believe it would be beneficial to have a multifunctional community centre in the heart of the area, namely, in Clongriffin.”

During parliamentary questions in the Dail, Deputy Broughan asked the Government to provide funding for, and become a stakeholder in a multi-functional community centre in Clongriffin. 

It is expected that the indicative cost of such a centre would be in the region of €6 million or €7 million.” 

Minister Ring pointed out that a community centre was recently established in Clongriffin. The centre is leased by Dublin City Council and has been available to local community groups since its official launch on May 14.

Deputy Broughan acknowledged the opening of the new hub but argued that it is “essentially a small space”. 

“We have a very vibrant community in Clongriffin and the adjoining districts,” he said. 

“Besides the local ‘Dubs’ and people from all over Ireland, including the Minister’s county, we also have up to 40 different nationalities. People have seen what is done in other areas. 

“Unfortunately, we are not a strategic development zone but we have seen a major new multifunctional community centre placed beside the secondary school in Phibblestown in the Taoiseach’s constituency and in a number of other areas, thereby creating a centre for the area.”

Minister Ring said he would be supportive of anything that is good for community. He urged Deputy Broughan to investigate the new €2 billion Urban Regeneration Fund which is opening this month. 

“The Deputy might look at making an application with Dublin City Council under that fund,” said Minister Ring. 

“These are the kind of projects that should be supported. Maybe the county council and other State agencies would assist the Deputy and the community to make an application. Applications will be open in June, announcements will be made in November and there will be a second round next year. This and all the existing schemes are there to support communities.” 

Deputy Broughan said: “I welcome Minister Ring’s confirmation that the new urban regeneration fund will be available for projects such as a multi-functional community centre in Clongriffin.  

“I urge all stakeholders to work with their local representatives on a comprehensive and inclusive plan which would bring much needed, improved amenities to this growing urban area.”