Convert Dublin’s derelict buildings into homes for essential workers, Lord Mayor says
Derelict buildings in Dublin’s city centre should be converted into homes for nurses, gardaí, teachers and other essential workers, according to Councillor Ray McAdam, Lord Mayor of Dublin.
Repurposing close to 138 such sites identified by the council will encourage more essential workers to live and work in the city centre, said Mr McAdam.
“The Dublin City Taskforce Report proposed that derelict sites should be converted into residential properties with provisions for essential workers like nurses, gardaí, teachers, and public transport staff,” he said.
Launched in 2024 by the Department of the Taoiseach, the taskforce report reccommends changes to the city centre to tackle issues around safety, dereliction and housing.
“We want those who work locally to live locally and converting these buildings is a great way of getting more housing right in our city centre,” said Mr McAdam.
“Businesses across the city are struggling to get staff. We need to make it more appealing for people to be based in the city centre and access to housing is central to this.”
“Healthcare workers, public transport workers, and public sector workers need more support finding housing.”
The taskforce report recommends the setting up of a “grants aid system” for public sector workers to help secure additional funding for their housing.
“We need to see an update on how this grant system is being progressed and when the system will be implemented,” said Mr McAdam.
“A pilot programme to convert derelict housing is being run on Middle Abbey Street and North Frederick Street, but we know there are plenty of areas across the city that could also be used for this scheme.
The council has confirmed that €10 million is owed to DCC in unpaid derelict site levies.
An analysis from the Irish Independent last year revealed that nearly 10pc on Dublin city’s derelict sites register have “languished” on the list for at least a decade.
"With 138 properties on the council’s derelict site register we need to tackle this and get progress made on converting these homes for workers,” added the Lord Mayor.
“Having people live and work in the city centre is essential for Dublin’s future. It’s vital that they have access to affordable housing options where they work – we need to see more housing options for the people who keep our city running.”