“Leadership shown by local representatives must be met half-way by government”  

Ahead of today’s planned meeting between the Taoiseach and other government Ministers and Drogheda-based TDs and Councillors, TD Ged Nash has said we must see progress on the D Hotel issue.

“Being called to this meeting by the Taoiseach has raised legitimate expectations in our community that some progress is being made” he said.

“If the purpose of this meeting is to tell local representatives that the status quo remains, it will be a wasted exercise. This cannot be a Grand Old Duke of York effort.

“Elected representatives from across the spectrum in Drogheda have shown responsibility and real leadership. We have all led by example in our community since government announced its decision on the D Hotel almost three weeks ago.

“It is critical that government understands that that leadership, often in the face of extreme hostility, must be recognised and met half-way.

“Responsible TDs like me have worked constructively and proposed imaginative solutions such as dual use of the D Hotel, fully embracing our town’s responsibility to host with solidarity and grace those who come here seeking Ireland’s shelter, while at the same time supporting our local economy with tourism beds. 

“The Taoiseach and Minister O’Gorman must respond positively too to the almost 50,000 Drogheda people who don’t show up to far-right protests, the 50,000 locals who have no truck with extremists who trade on hate and hostility towards migrants, and whose only concern has been the displacement of all tourism beds in Ireland’s largest town’s only remaining full-service hotel and the impact on jobs.

“Figures provided to me by the Department of Integration last Thursday suggests that seven hotels across the country operate on a commercial basis while simultaneously accommodating international protection applicants. This must still be on the agenda. 

“This is doable. In the two weeks ago the Taoiseach described my proposal as ‘the best outcome’ for Drogheda. Today is a big test for this government and for its commitment to Drogheda.

“As Minister Humphreys will be present too, it would be an opportune time for the regional development Minister to announce a fast-tracked package of meaningful investment for our town centre.”