back to national news

Good jobs key to O’Connell Street regeneration

16 November 2022

  • Clerys Quarter must be the benchmark for community benefits

Labour spokesperson on workers’ rights, Senator Marie Sherlock said today (Wednesday, 16th November) said that good jobs with decent terms and conditions, as promised by developers taking over the Clery’s building, is one of the key measures needed for the historic street’s regeneration.

Senator Sherlock said:

“O’Connell Street must be revitalised in a way that respects its position as the premier street of the capital. That means that it must be redeveloped with respect shown to its historical and cultural importance, not just commercial interests. The reality is that without a real and genuine commitment from Dublin City Council, the Government, An Garda Síochána and business interests to renew the area by underpinning it with good jobs and a safe space to travel and convene, then the local community will continue to suffer from anti-social behaviour.

"The developers of the Clerys Quarter must ensure the deal done between the previous owner of the site and unions must be implemented in full in order to maximise the potential for the O’Connell Street area and local communities.

“I believe this agreement with its associated ‘community benefits’ clauses should establish a benchmark for good development in the O’Connell Street area and elsewhere in our commercial city centres. Dublin City Council along with stakeholders in the community must take firm action and ensure O’Connell Street is developed with respect to its historic and commercial significance.

"In particular, we understand that one high end luxury retail brand is due to occupy a significant amount of space in the new Clerys Quarter. This shops will be located a stone's throw from some of the most economically disadvantaged communities in Dublin city with above average levels of low wage employment and joblessness so it absolutely vital that workers in inner city communities are afforded an opportunity to earn a decent livelihood from this retail offering."