Annual Progress Report 2023

This afternoon, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar T.D. joined Jim Gavin, Chairman of the North East Inner City Programme Implementation Board to launch the North East Inner City Initiative’s 2023 Progress Report.

Since 2016, the Government has invested over €45.7 million under the Initiative which has achieved significant progress in enhancing the lives of people living and working in Dublin’s North East Inner City.

This is the seventh Progress Report on the NEIC Initiative and it sets out the extensive work undertaken by the Programme Implementation Board in 2023 and sets out priorities for 2024.

Speaking at Killarney Court Community Centre today, the Taoiseach remarked:

“I am delighted to join Chairman Jim Gavin and the North East Inner City Programme Implementation Board today to launch the 2023 Progress Report for the North East Inner City Initiative.

The Programme Implementation Board is investing in the residents and communities of the North East Inner City through initiatives that make a real difference. These include initiatives for students and schools, after-school services, help for young people to enter the workforce, parenting supports, Restorative Practice, Dual Diagnosis, Arts, Sports, and many, many more.

It is important to recognise the dedicated work that is happening year in - year out, on the ground in the North East Inner City. That is why I am proud to be launching this Progress Report today. It highlights the good in our society – it shows how we are working together tirelessly and collaboratively to make a difference.”

The Taoiseach also noted the milestone capital achievements progressed in 2023.

“The refurbishment of the former Rutland Street School was a long-standing aspiration of the Programme Implementation Board and a key objective of the Mulvey Report. In November, a ‘turning-of-the-sod’ event was held on the grounds of the School marking the commencement of the refurbishment works. This landmark building will soon be re-established as a focal point for the community for future generations.

Diamond Park reopened in August following extensive redevelopment. The results are an incredible resource for the area, and one which will act as a hub of community life for generations to come.”

Speaking on today’s launch, Jim Gavin, Independent Chairperson of the NEIC Initiative stated:

“The NEIC Programme Implementation Board is unwavering in its commitment to resolve the challenges faced on a daily basis by this great community and capitalise on the vast expanse of opportunities that lie ahead to create a brighter future for all.

Our 2023 Progress Report showcases that commitment to Dublin’s North East Inner City and highlights a selection of the excellent work completed during the year on areas such as community safety, family support, education & employment, health, sport, and improvements in the physical environment. This has been achieved by working collaboratively with the community and its representatives, local businesses, Dublin City Council, Government Departments and agencies.”

Highlights from the 2023 Progress Report include:

• Commencement on the refurbishment of the Rutland Street School building.

• Funding of over €762,000 for initiatives to support students, training, and employment opportunities.

• 1,750 pupils, across ten NEIC primary schools, linked to a tailored set of supports and opportunities under the City Connects programme.

• 2,442 interventions delivered across psychology, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy in the past three years under the MDT programme operating in ten NEIC primary schools.

• Input to the work of the Citizens’ Assembly on Drug Use with a presentation on the impact of drugs in the NEIC and the health-led approach being supported by the Programme Implementation Board.

• Funding for initiatives to support people dealing with addiction issues and mental health issues including establishing a Recovery Community in the NEIC, an on-street outreach service to vulnerable people, and an employment access programme for people in recovery from addition.

• Funding for a grant scheme to improve access for refugees and migrants to community-based services.

• Funding of over €930,000 provided for dedicated sports and wellbeing programmes, arts programmes, and cultural events.