Taoiseach told the future of Drogheda 'cannot afford to wait years"

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has been told Drogheda "cannot afford to wait years" for stronger local governance amid calls for the restoration of town and borough councils. 

Fianna Fáil senator Alison Comyn for Louth told the Taoiseach that if Drogheda is to gain city status it needs "stronger local leadership and focused attention". 

"My focus is on what can actually be delivered for Drogheda now. In my meeting with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin I emphasised that a town with Drogheda’s population and strategic importance needs stronger local leadership and focused attention. 

"While the ambition of city status will require the support and cooperation of both Louth County Council and Meath County Council and could take time to achieve, Drogheda cannot afford to wait years for the stronger local governance it urgently needs." 

"Exploring the restoration of borough or town council status could be a practical first step in providing that focus and leadership,” she said. 

Senator Comyn also said the absence of the D Hotel in Drogheda has had a "real impact" on the town's economy. 

The hotel has been used as an International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) Centre, however the two-year contract was due to expire at the end of February. 

"I raised with the Taoiseach the urgent need to find a pathway that would allow this key facility to once again serve visitors, businesses and events in Drogheda. Restoring that tourism capacity is vital for the town’s economic vitality and future growth,” she said. 

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Senator Comyn told the Taoiseach that improved infrastructure is needed to deal with the town's expanding population. 

“Drogheda has seen significant population growth in recent years, and our infrastructure must keep pace with that reality. I made the case strongly for State support for the bridge in Phase 3 of the Port Access Route and for the inclusion of a second northside railway station as part of the development of the area.

These are essential projects if we are to properly support the housing, connectivity, and economic development that Drogheda and the wider region now require,” she said.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.