The Government has announced the establishment of a taskforce to make Dublin a more attractive and safe city.
It will be chaired by An Post CEO David McRedmond and will work over the next three months to develop recommendations for Government.
Announcing the taskforce this morning, Taoiseach Simon Harris said that since the Covid-19 pandemic there has been a change in the social and cultural character of the city.
Mr McRedmond said that while he would not describe Dublin as an unsafe city, it could be better.
The taskforce will be charged with bringing forward recommendations to improve all areas where the public has access and ensure safety.
The stated aim is to make the capital's city centre a more thriving, attractive and safe cityscape; a desirable location to live, work, do business and visit; and a destination for retail, hospitality and cultural experiences.
It will examine the use of cultural spaces, the public transport network and issues around anti-social behaviour and litter.
The taskforce will include representatives from gardaí, Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority among others.
It will be obliged to deliver its recommendations to the Taoiseach for consideration within 12 weeks of starting work, and they will inform the conclusion of a well-integrated Dublin City Action Plan.
Mr McRedmond said its focus will be on the area from Parnell Square to St Stephen's Green.
"It's about pulling together all of the great work that is being done at the moment," he said.
If it proves to be a success, Mr McRedmond added, it can be replicated in other parts of the city or other areas.
Mr Harris said the taskforce will be different to the North East Inner City Initiative, established by former taoiseach Enda Kenny.
He said that when the terms of reference were drawn up, he was eager to ensure that the new body did not duplicate work that was under way.
"Instead it [will] pull together best practice across a whole variety of initiatives," Mr Harris said.
The taskforce will present its recommendations to the Government at the end of July.
Additional reporting Paul Cunningham
