How would you help get more housing built in the city – especially social and affordable housing?
Fianna Fáil has a proven track record of addressing housing challenges, and I'm committed to continuing this progress. By working closely with my party and local authorities, I'll advocate for significant increases in housing availability. Our Housing for All plan, spearheaded by Minister Darragh O'Brien, aims to build 300,000 homes by 2030. I'll support measures like tax incentives and funding for developers to ensure the delivery of social and affordable housing. Additionally, I'll protect and expand schemes like Help to Buy and the Vacancy Refurbishment Grants to facilitate home ownership.
How would you help improve conditions in existing housing, both social and privately rented?
Improving housing conditions is essential for the well-being of our community. I'll empower local councils to enforce regulations and hold landlords accountable for maintaining safe and habitable living spaces. This includes increasing funding for inspections and providing resources for tenants to report issues. Additionally, I'll support initiatives to enhance standards in the private rented sector, ensuring all residents have access to quality housing.
What would you do to help make the city feel less dirty, tackling the rubbish and dog poo all over the streets?
A clean city is essential for residents' quality of life. I'll advocate for increased penalties for illegal dumping and littering, while also expanding public waste management services. Collaborating with local businesses and community groups, I'll organize clean-up events and promote waste reduction initiatives. By investing in street cleaning and litter removal, we can create a cleaner and more prosperous city for all.
What would you do to help tackle vacancy and dereliction?
Tackling vacancy and dereliction is a priority. I'll support initiatives like the Vacant Homes Action Plan and the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant to bring unused properties back into use. By working with local authorities and leveraging planning regulations, we can expedite the process of revitalizing vacant buildings. Additionally, I'll advocate for increased funding and resources to address this issue comprehensively.
What needs to be done to make the city feel safer?
Public safety is paramount. I'll collaborate with law enforcement, community organizations, and residents to implement community policing programs and increase police presence in high-crime areas. Enhancing street lighting and CCTV coverage will improve visibility and deter criminal activity. By addressing root causes of crime and investing in crime prevention initiatives, we can create a safer environment for everyone.
What needs to be done to improve public transport in the city?
Improving public transport is vital for reducing congestion and enhancing mobility. I'll advocate for investments in expanding and upgrading bus, tram, and rail networks to serve more areas efficiently. Additionally, I'll prioritize accessibility initiatives to ensure public transport is inclusive for all residents, including those with disabilities. By enhancing services and infrastructure, we can create a more accessible and sustainable transport system.
What should be done to make it nicer and safer for people to get around the city on foot and by bike?
Creating safer and more pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly streets is essential. I'll support the expansion of dedicated bike lanes and traffic calming measures to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, I'll advocate for better maintenance of existing infrastructure and the provision of secure bike parking facilities. By prioritizing pedestrian and cyclist needs in urban planning, we can create a more inviting and accessible city for all.
What would you do to help counter the rise of the far right, anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ+ hate, and anti-asylum-seeker arsons?
Addressing hate and discrimination requires a united effort from all sectors of society. I'll support education and awareness campaigns to combat prejudice and promote diversity and inclusion. Additionally, I'll advocate for adequate law enforcement response and support services for victims of hate crimes. By fostering a culture of tolerance and understanding, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate community for everyone.