Dublin Taskforce report demands decisive action - Retail Ireland

Retail Ireland, the Ibec group that represents the Irish retail sector, today welcomed the report of the Dublin City Centre Taskforce and said decisive government action was now needed address the range of challenges facing the city. Over recent years retailers have reported escalating levels of retail crime and anti-social behaviour. This trend cannot be allowed to continue. The report highlights the need for many more Gardai to reach the level of policing in other European cities, but it also sets out a range of positive proposals to support the development of a vibrant city centre into the future.

Retail Ireland Director Arnold Dillon said: “Dublin city retailers are deeply frustrated at the rising levels of crime and anti-social behaviour in parts of the city. Retail workers are bearing the brunt of this, with harassment, abuse and violence becoming commonplace. Immediate measure are needed to address these acute problems. At the same time we need to build a city for the future, with more city centre housing, better transport connections and improved public amenities.

“A coordinated approach is needed across the range of agencies and groups that are responsible for the city, including the Department of Justice, the Gardai, Dublin City Council and business. This needs leadership at a senior political level and the necessary financial resources to make it happen.”