Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire TD, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, has today (Tuesday) said it is time for the town to move forward and plan for a brighter future. Deputy Mitchell O’Connor was speaking after the Business Improvement District (BID) scheme was passed by Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council members. 

“There has been much debate in recent months about the merits or otherwise of the BID scheme. I am pleased that councillors have voted in favour of the scheme and I believe it is now time for the town to move forward and focus on the future. Dun Laoghaire has so much to offer visitors and residents alike, but it is only through working together that we can maximise the town’s potential. 

“This is a new start for Dun Laoghaire. The BID scheme will help the town to achieve greater success in the future, and will allow it to move forward from the difficulties which have blighted businesses in recent years. I am committed to a Dun Laoghaire that prospers, that supports its small businesses and that people not only want to shop in and visit, but where people want to live and raise a family. 

“All interested parties must now take a collaborative approach to get the best return for Dun Laoghaire. That means business owners, traders, shoppers, local residents, the Dun Laoghaire Harbour Board and the Local Authority, all need to buy into a future vision for Dun Laoghaire, as a prosperous and successful town. 

“The development of the seafront and the shopping area will be key to the town’s future success. In particular, we need to help the main street to reclaim its vibrancy. We need to push ahead with the development of visitor attractions like the Diaspora Centre and maximise the use of the library and cultural centre. We also need to be ambitious in how we encourage enterprise, such as putting a levy on unused buildings which detract from the town. 

“Dun Laoghaire is a beautiful town in a fantastic location that has the capability to reclaim its vibrancy and establish itself as a standalone tourism destination. The town can also boast a rich heritage and a strong sense of community. Dun Laoghaire’s business community is a hardworking and resilient bunch, and I hope any differences can be put aside so we can all work together to make Dun Laoghaire an even better place to live in and visit. 

“I view last night’s acceptance of the BID scheme as a rallying call for optimism. Let’s banish negativity and focus on positivity, for the betterment of Dun Laoghaire into the future.”