A message from An Cathaoirleach Denis O'Callaghan

The start of my term as Cathaoirleach has been busy with my focus on community, housing, and climate change. I’m glad to have attended many openings and launches that benefit citizens across the County in these areas.

I was delighted to announce the return of the Dún Laoghaire St. Patrick’s Day Parade, after a long absence. In partnership with Dún Laoghaire Business Association the return of the parade showcases the pride of the town and will unite the community and businesses in celebration.

Many of our parks and open spaces have benefited from upgrades and new amenities. The upgraded Myrtle Square, which I recently opened, is a catalyst for others to develop further climate-led projects. Blackrock Park’s new adventure place space encourages children’s active play and Apna Park’s new pump track is multi-sport, capable of use by bicycles, skateboards and in-line skates, suitable for all ages. Work has also begun on a new library in Ballyogan. These facilities represent significant additions to our public spaces.

Housing continues to be one of my priorities. I’m pleased to have participated in several projects that deliver additional social housing properties. dlr Housing Construction completed 67 social homes in Ballyogan Square, which I opened in October. More recently I turned the sod in St. Laurence’s Park, starting works on 88 new homes and a new Library. Work is progressing well on the 597 homes in Shanganagh. The Part V Scheme has added almost 100 properties and seven properties have been purchased via the Cost Rental Tenant-In-Situ Scheme with another 34 in conveyancing. There have been 424 allocations to date and I’m looking forward to future projects that allocate further properties to those on our housing lists.

In October I joined the Lord Mayor of Dublin City County, Mayor of South Dublin County Council and Mayor of Fingal County Council to launch our Draft Climate Action Plans. The public consultation for our Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 is now closed, we thank everyone for their submissions.

Looking forward to 2024, I will continue to champion projects for the betterment of the County and join the community in experiencing all that dlr has to offer.