As the government blocks funding for major social-housing projects, FF and FG councillors point fingers at ministers
As many as 1,325 social homes in Dublin city are at an advanced stage, with planning granted – but now with no clear funding.
Meanwhile, Dublin City Council is hoping to organise events on Newmarket Square over the summer, an official says.
At a meeting on Monday, councillors used a discussion about a city rejuvenation plan to resurface complaints about last year’s event.
Market operator Manifesto has walked away from the project, said its co-founder Martin Barry.
There’d be wider footpaths, more trees, more cycle routes, and new public spaces with seating.
The public has a “market right” – a right to access the market – and that is a common-law property right protected by the constitution, says Toby Simmonds.
The works could take years, so in the meantime the Victorian building should be used for cultural events, says Social Democrats Councillor Cat O’Driscoll.
Councillors say they want the council-run market brought back, in one form or another.
These were among the issues that Dublin city councillors discussed at a meeting of their Central Area Committee on Tuesday.
Locals and councillors say they’ll be watching to see whether a farmers’ market will work here – but that, long-term, they’d rather see the derelict site built out.
The council’s climate action team is surveying city residents about their shopping, cooking, eating, and binning habits, until 14 February.
“Setting up a backdrop for taking portraits in the middle of Moore Street really gave me insight into how energetic and vibrant the street can be,” writes photographer Aarif Amod.
Handing it over to a private operator would drive up prices and drive out small traders, say some councillors. Dublin City Council says it can set conditions when seeking operators.