Madam, - With the OPW having just sold off valuable land in Ballsbridge, formerly occupied by the UCD veterinary college, to private property developers without any debate taking place, it is interesting to now witness the PDs promoting the relocation of Dublin Port.
Such a move would, apparently, "free up to 600-plus acres of Ireland's most valuable real estate for phased redevelopment", according to Senator Tom Morrissey.
More specifically, the good senator noted that "this has the potential to create a spectacular Manhattan-style approach to Dublin by sea".
All stirring stuff and great news for private property developers. However, although the plan is still just a PD aspiration, it would be appropriate, given its scale, that a proper debate takes place should the land eventually end up on the market. Is all State land slowly to be surrendered to private developers without the taxpayers being taken into account?
While the phrase "Manhattan-style" covers a multitude, the PDs do not appear to be suggesting a large public park or any public amenityfor the current port site.
Senator Morrissey and the PDs want "to fuel a public debate". Let's make sure they have one. - Yours, etc,
PAUL FARRELL, Clyde Lane, Dublin 4.