Labour sets out multi-billion euro proposal for capital

LABOUR yesterday launched a multi-billioneuro plan for Dublin which it said would transform it into one of the great cities of the world.

New proposals include converting the GPO into a lending library, creating a Greater Dublin Authority with a directly-elected Mayor, and a pedestrianised College Green (the wide space at the east end of Dame Street in front of Trinity College).

The party’s enterprise spokesperson Ruairí Quinn launched the 10-point plan at a rally in central Dublin yesterday.

Mr Quinn said that the Dublin of 2007 is a city under enormous pressure and creaking at the hinges from the phenomenal pace of change over the past four decades.

“The failure to plan properly, the failure to provide proper infrastructure and public transport, the failure to provide for recreation have all diminished the quality of life.

“All these factors have also combined to rob Dublin of its full potential,” he said.

However, no details were given as to how much the overall plan would cost the Exchequer.

This is likely to be criticised by Government parties in the coming days.

Party leader Pat Rabbitte told the meeting that the plan was ambitious but not impossible.

“Labour can help create a city which is an engine of economic growth, but also a place to live, to work, and to bring up a family,” he said.

The Proposal:

Making 500 new buses available and introducing a standard €1 fare.

600 community care beds, medical assessment units in all hospitals and more GP services.

Putting more gardaí on the beat and local district courts in each of the main neighbourhoods.

Creating 5,000 social affordable houses each year in Dublin and the eradication of homelessness.

Stopping decentralisation as planned.

Culturally, creating a Science Museum, a Dublin city museum, and converting the GPO into a lending library.

Pedestrianised College Green with more park space.

Building eco-friendly schools in new neighbourhoods.

Tackling poverty andsocial exclusion in thecapital.

Establishing directly elected City Mayor and a Greater Dublin Authority.