Ardee's exclusion from Living Cities initiative 'borders on discrimination'

Ardee local representative, Cllr Dolores Minogue, has said that she is “appalled” that Ardee has not been included along with Dundalk and Drogheda in the government's new Living City Initiative, and that its exclusion "borders on discrimination".

The initiative is a tax incentive that encourages people to live in historic inner-city areas and is aimed at helping regenerate older city areas and supports creating more homes in established locations.

In comments to the Dundalk Democrat, Cllr Minogue said that, “As the local councillor representing Ardee Mid Louth, I am appalled that our town has been excluded from the government’s Living Cities Initiative, which is scheduled to be operational in Drogheda and Dundalk by June of this year.”

The Fine Gael councillor explained that: “Ardee Mid Louth has its fair share of dereliction, and our local businesses are doing everything they can to revive the town, attract investment, and create opportunities.

“To see neighbouring towns receive government support while our community is overlooked is not only unfair—it borders on discrimination.

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“Our residents and businesses deserve equal treatment and the same opportunity to benefit from schemes designed to rejuvenate urban centres.”

Calling for Ardee to be included in the initiative, Cllr Minogue said, “I call on the government to urgently reconsider this decision and ensure that Ardee Mid Louth is included in the Living Cities Initiative. Our town cannot afford to be left behind while others receive critical support to stimulate growth and economic activity.”

Cllr Minogue added: “The message this sends about fairness and equity in government policy is unacceptable.”