Averil Power (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I have tabled this debate to highlight the need for the Government to ensure that a certain percentage of jobs are allocated to local people during the Dublin docklands redevelopment, similar to arrangements that were put in place for the Grangegorman development. Recently, I met Mr. Tony McDonnell of the North Wall residents association and a local representative for the area, Mr. Brian Mohan. They asked me to raise this issue with the Minister.

As the Minister of State is aware, major development is planned for the docklands under the docklands strategic development zone, SDZ, from the convention centre and the IFSC to the 3Arena and the new Central Bank building. It is important that this development not only be done in a way that is sensitive to the needs of residents who will see considerable change in their area, but also brings a community benefit. One of the best ways of doing so is by securing employment for locals during the construction phase and when the new businesses open. This is particularly important, given that it is an area of high unemployment. There are many construction workers in the area and others are training in various aspects of construction.

This initiative would also be in the interests of local businesses if they are to integrate properly in their communities and be accepted by same. Not only should people be given construction jobs during development, but companies should be encouraged to employ people locally and run trainee internships for local students so that they might get business experience. There is an opportunity to link the development with the National College of Ireland, NCI, which is based in the IFSC. Companies' skills needs could be identified for the NCI, which could then ensure that local people acquired those skills. I have tabled this debate to ask the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to liaise with the relevant stakeholders and ensure that this initiative happens.