Drogheda and District Chamber Expresses Deep Disappointment Over d Hotel Accommodation Closure
Drogheda, Ireland – 9th March 2024 - Drogheda and District Chamber today voiced deep disappointment at the confirmation of plans to close accommodation to the general public at the d Hotel, a move set to proceed despite community concerns.
The decision follows the recent announcement that the hotel would transition into a centre for International Protection Applicants. Despite efforts by the Chamber, and Love Drogheda BID, to engage with government officials to seek a resolution, the closure will result in a significant reduction in bed capacity in the town.
The Chamber had proposed a 'dual purpose' usage model for the hotel, akin to systems implemented in other regions across the country. However, citing child protection concerns and the hotel's design, the government deemed such a solution unfeasible.
Hubert Murphy, President of Drogheda and District Chamber has stated that: "The focus of Drogheda and District Chamber has been on finding a resolution to this problem - in partnership with others from the town - but that now seems impossible. The town is now facing a huge issue in respect of bed numbers, and this will impact its viability into the future if left unchecked."
Murphy emphasised Drogheda's longstanding struggles with accommodation shortages, highlighting the urgency of addressing the situation. "This needs to be the line in the sand," he explained. "From now on, the focus, at national and international levels, must be to drive the town forward on a grand scale. As a Chamber, we intend to lobby at every opportunity, introduce key stakeholders to the benefits of doing business by the Boyneside – hotel and accommodation providers included. ‘Resilience’ has been a key word for this town over the last few years and in the coming months, those that sit in government and in industrial and business sectors, both here and abroad, will hear a clear message, that Drogheda is open for business. We won’t be waiting for them to come to us, we’ll be knocking on their doors."
As part of its proactive approach, the Chamber pledged to intensify lobbying efforts, advocate for the benefits of conducting business in Drogheda, and demand special category status for the town, Ireland's largest.
ENDS