It’s past time the government took action on reversing the deterioration of Dublin’s city centre, according to Social Democrat’s justice spokesperson Gary Gannon, who represents Dublin Central.
Deputy Gannon said:
“I welcome this proposal as a step in the right direction – the GPO is a symbol of our heritage, and it should be a beacon for the rejuvenation of the city.
“But we have been here before – too many announcements, too many promises, and, in the end, too little delivered.
“For years, this government has watched Dublin’s city centre decay – they have treated Talbot Street, O’Connell Street and surrounding areas as an afterthought.
“This new proposal must not be another headline-grabbing announcement that goes nowhere – Dubliners deserve better than to be led up the garden path yet again.
“Has funding been ringfenced for this project? If so, how much has been set aside? The government must be forthright with these details before any progress is made.
“We can’t have another project announced with great fanfare only to get bogged down in delays, planning setbacks or a lack of political will. We need accountability, urgency, and a concrete timeline for delivery.
“I have long called for a comprehensive, properly resourced plan for the revitalisation of the city. The GPO can be a pivotal piece of that – if the government is serious about making it happen.
“We should all watch closely to ensure that this is the catalyst for long‑overdue change in Dublin, and not another missed opportunity.”
24th June, 2025