DROGHEDA business community representatives are to further engage with government officials after a very constructive meeting with Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman at Leinster House.
Chamber President Hubert Murphy and Drogheda BIDS CEO,Trevor Connolly, had a one hour meeting with the minister and his officials over the ongoing debate surrounding the d Hotel and its proposed use as a base for international protection applicants. "It was a very frank, fair and constructive discussion and there is certainly something to work on," the Chamber President stated.
Pictured L to R Chamber President Hubert Murphy Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman and Drogheda BIDS CEO,Trevor Connolly
Concerns were raised about the impact on tourism and future funding streams, while the BIDS chief suggested "that it was a constructive meeting that gave an opportunity to air economic concerns from the business community on the impact on the tourism and retail sector". He spoke of the potential need of a new incentive scheme for hotel owners to return their buildings to public use as soon as long term government granted accommodation deals run out. He asked for a retail and economic assessment and more clarity on the decision making process, especially when a key element of the town's bedroom requirement disappeared without warning.
The president urged that business leaders - through Chambers Ireland and BIDs organistaions - be contacted for guidance when nationwide decisions are being considered.
The minister said that a 'dual use' compromise in relation to the d Hotel was to be considered, but the department was looking at the challenges that brings. A commitment of some clarity on this is expected within the next few weeks.
After a request, it was agreed the department officials would meet with the Drogheda Implementation Board to get a wider view on the needs of the town and its citizens.