Dartmouth Square case highlights need for laws to protect public green spaces
Statement by Green Party Chairman and TD for Dublin South East John Gormley:
“I attended Court today for the second time in relation to Dublin City Council’s injunction against Noel O’Gara, the controversial owner of Dartmouth Square in Dublin. Last week he stated in court that he wished to use tree-pruning machinery in the park. This is a euphemism for chainsaws and naturally causes concern for local residents. At this morning’s hearing Mr O’Gara stated that he wishes to question the constitutionality of the Planning Act 2000. Resolution of this particular dispute is therefore delayed for another week and won’t be fully resolved until the compulsory purchase order is fully approved.
“The Green Party believes that this particular case – and other cases in Stillorgan that were reported on today – show beyond all doubt that legislation at central level is required to protect our public green spaces, and indeed to acquire green spaces by CPO where there are institutional lands going unused in urban areas.
“This of course will not happen while Fianna Fail and the PDs are in Government because of their very close association with developers and speculators. The Green Party will ensure that this issue is given priority status in the forthcoming General Election campaign. We are prepared to take on the likes of Mr O’Gara and others,” Deputy Gormley concluded.
Dublin South TD Eamon Ryan added:
“Another recent example of public spaces under threat is the Saint Raphaela’s development in Stillorgan, where a valuable community open space, which should have remained under the auspices of the Council, was sought by Shannon Homes for a massive housing development. Following a number of interventions on behalf of the local residents, the planning application has been withdrawn pending a full investigation into the affair.”