Plans for a safer north east inner city unveiled  

north east inner city a safer, more attractive and vibrant living and working environment for the community and its families have been unveiled.  

Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe joined the North East Inner City (NEIC) Programme Implementation Board Chair, Michael Stone, for the recent launch of the third annual progress report for the NEIC, coupled with the Strategic Plan 2020-2022 for the area. 

They were joined by Deputy Enda Kenny (FG), who has been instrumental in the reform agenda for the NEIC, and the implementation of the recommendations of the Mulvey Report since 2017.

The NEIC Progress Report 2019 sets out the improvements that were made last year in the implementation of a wide range of programmes and projects.

These programmes include sport, recreation and wellbeing; tackling crime and drugs; community and arts events; education, training and employment; the provision of social services; and addiction treatment and rehabilitation services.

The strategic report for the coming three years will ensure that the solid work that has been undertaken to date continues so that the services are put in place that allow the north east inner city to continue 

Speaking at the launch before Christmas, Minister Donohoe said the work carried out in the north east inner city in the last number of years is having a “real impact” on the local community and its people.  

“This year (2019) we have seen the opening of an Inclusion Health Hub in the area, which is the first of its kind in Ireland, is delivering valuable health services for drug users and the most vulnerable people in the community,” he said.

“Work is also ongoing on apprenticeships and engagement with local business, with 18 paid student summer work placements in the funds industry in the adjacent IFSC. 

“A new Dublin Bus route is also now in place, serving the area and helping the community feel like it is even more connected.

“The changes that are taking place in the north east inner city are evident. The hard work and commitment of the local residents, to transforming the area, is matched only by Michael Stone and the team he has put in place to ensure long-term sustainable outcomes are delivered.”

Government funding of €6.5 million was made available last year to ensure that those objectives were met. 

“We now turn our attention to the Strategic Plan for 2020-2022 and to further improvements in the areas of childcare, care for the elderly, modernisation of the local landscape and quality of life enhancements for all those living in the north east inner city in the years ahead,” added Minister Donohoe. 

Michael Stone said: “In 2020, I look forward to close cooperation from the community, businesses, Dublin City Council, Government agencies and Departments as we work together to implement the NEIC Strategic Plan 2020-2022. 

“I remain focused and committed to the NEIC initiative and will continue to work to ensure that it will be a success for everyone in the area.”