Residents’ voices must be considered

DUBLIN City Council should listen to the people of Dublin when considering new plans for the city.

Dick Gleeson, Dublin City Council’s principal planner, has been recently quoted in newspapers as supporting the move of Dublin Port out of the docklands, and promoting high-rise building in Ringsend, Ballsbridge and Rathmines.

Rather, though, than getting massive high-rise buildings and an incinerator, these areas should be developed according to what is wanted by the people who live there.

Does the council have plans for real public participation and not just meaningless consultation? What does it intend to do if people disagree with the proposals?

Will Mr Gleeson and the council try to impose ‘democracy’, as was done with the incinerator, which is being pushed through despite overwhelming opposition from the people of the area?

What plans are there to replace the thousands of jobs that will be lost from the area if the port is closed?

Instead of high-rise development, local residents have clearly said they want low-rise, family-friendly housing, with more social and affordable housing provided. They want nature conservation measures, light-impact community recreation facilities and youth facilities — not incinerators.

These people are campaigning to ensure that the environment, communities’ and social and human needs are prioritised over developers’ profit. Their voices must be heard.

Rory Hearne

People Before Profit Alliance

6 New Row South

Christchurch

Dublin 8.