Dublin: A new report from the Dublin City Task Force has outlined 10 key action plans to make Ireland’s capital more attractive, safer, and vibrant. One of the standout recommendations is the introduction of a special housing scheme for essential workers, including healthcare professionals and Gardaí, aimed at addressing their accommodation needs in light of challenging working conditions. The report envisions a “Better Dublin” that enhances the city’s appeal for living, working, and visiting.
At a ceremony at the GPO, Prime Minister Simon Harris unveiled the report, which was produced by a task force chaired by An Post CEO David McRedmond. The task force, formed in May 2024, put forth recommendations that include creating a smarter, more efficient city through digital innovation and improved governance.
Special Housing Scheme for Nurses and Gardaí
The report proposes special housing developments on vacant sites within Dublin to accommodate essential workers like nurses and Gardaí. It suggests increasing Dublin City Council’s revolving fund to purchase these sites and encourages public-private partnerships for housing development. Additionally, a grant aid scheme for the construction of housing specifically for essential staff is recommended.
Prime Minister: A Blueprint for Transforming Dublin
Prime Minister Harris expressed optimism that the report would help transform Dublin into a more desirable place for residents, businesses, and tourists. Minister for Justice Helen McEntee also emphasised that public safety would be a top priority, noting that 64% of the Garda force is currently stationed in Dublin. She highlighted upcoming legislation, including the introduction of facial recognition technology, as part of the broader security measures.
The task force’s recommendations are designed to address the city’s key challenges while prioritising public safety, improved public spaces, business opportunities, and tourism.
Key Highlights of the Task Force’s Recommendations:
1. Social Housing in Dublin’s Core
The government should facilitate the purchase and redevelopment of vacant sites to revitalise areas like O’Connell Street. Public buildings, such as the General Post Office (GPO), should be redeveloped, with upper floors converted into residential spaces. Government funding will prioritise social housing projects, simplifying planning and project management processes.
2. 1,000 Additional Gardaí for Dublin
To boost safety, the report calls for recruiting an additional 1,000 Gardaí for Dublin, along with establishing a city warden programme to assist with policing. Upgraded CCTV networks and enhanced security on public transport are also recommended. The O’Connell Street Garda station may be relocated to the GPO for strategic advantage.
3. Expanded Emergency Housing for the Homeless
Dublin’s emergency accommodation facilities should be significantly expanded to provide better services for the city’s homeless population. New regulations should govern street charitable services, and more stringent measures are needed to tackle street-level drug use.
4. Enhanced Waste Management Plan
A dedicated waste management system for the city is proposed, with a single entity overseeing waste collection and management in the city centre. An anti-litter campaign, led by city wardens, should also be launched.
5. Comprehensive Transport Plan, Including Night Traffic
The city centre transport plan should be implemented to ensure seamless traffic flow, including at night. Major carparks should be repurposed to accommodate bicycle parking and logistics hubs, while orbital sites with 24/7 coach parking and EV shuttle services should be established.
6. Visitor Corridors and Cultural Programmes
The report suggests creating three or four ‘visitor corridors’ to enhance pedestrian access to Dublin’s key attractions. The Dublin Trail should be reimagined as a premier visitor experience, with additional funding for cultural institutions to host special events.
7. Promoting Dublin’s Night-Time Economy
Recommendations include developing sustainable hotel projects, encouraging the night-time economy, and offering basic income for artists to support cultural growth. Expanding spaces for artistic performances is also a priority.
8. Smarter Dublin Through Digital Innovation
A digital platform should be developed to improve data sharing and governance within the city, helping to make ‘Smart Dublin’ a reality. This initiative would support better decision-making and more efficient urban management.
9. GPO Redevelopment as a Public Hub
The report proposes the redevelopment of the GPO as a central public building, with a focus on its historical significance. Upper floors should be converted into residential units, adding to the city’s housing stock.
10. Sustainable Development of Dublin’s Hotels
Plans for the sustainable development of the hotel sector are also highlighted, ensuring the city’s infrastructure can support its growing tourism and business sectors.
With this comprehensive set of proposals, the task force aims to address the challenges facing Dublin, from housing and safety to public transport and cultural development. Prime Minister Harris has expressed confidence that these recommendations will help reshape the city into a more dynamic, liveable, and business-friendly urban centre.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp