Wrixon shocked at news of docklands appointment

A FORMER university president reacted with shock yesterday to news that he looks set to be appointed chairman of a national body to spearhead a major urban regeneration project.

Gerry Wrixon, who retired early from his position as president of University College Cork (UCC) earlier this year, is later this month expected to be named chairman of a National Forum which will help co-ordinate the ambitious €2 billion Cork docklands regeneration.

But Mr Wrixon, who is out of the country, said it was news to him. “I haven’t heard anything. I’ve been out of the country for a while and have quite a lot of catching up to do,” he said.

“I didn’t know my name was being mentioned for this. This is a surprise to me. I better not say anything else about it.”

The forum, announced last year by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, will comprise senior officials from a range of Government departments and agencies.

The Taoiseach is expected to confirm Wrixon’s appointment, and the exact make-up of the forum later this month.

It will assist Cork City Council in its plans to redevelop the city’s sprawling 166-hectare (410-acre) docks region.

Mr Wrixon’s tenure as UCC president was noted for his stewardship of sweeping academic reform, rapid college expansion and building development. But it was also beset by controversy, bitter internaldivisions and public rows. He retired from his €190,000-post in January at the age of 66.

Senior Fianna Fáil figures said they would welcome his appointment. Noel O’Flynn said he would be a “safe pair of hands”.

Fine Gael TD Deirdre Clune also welcomed the news.

City manager Joe Gavin said: “It is a matter for the Taoiseach. But I welcome the national focus this forum will give to the docklands project. The city council is the appropriate body to lead this project but we can only take it so far.”

Mr Gavin said the council was actively progressing the project.

The docklands regeneration will transform the city’s north and south docks into one of Europe’s top waterfront quarters.

Cork Chamber President Joe Gantly said: “Gerry Wrixon possesses all of the attributes necessary to ensure that the project is delivered in a timely manner and achieves maximum potential. The chamber fully supports his appointment.”