The strict security regime surrounding the Queen’s visit masks its true purpose – to inform our nearest neighbours that Ireland is open for business.
Business owners, proprietors and department store managers throughout Dublin view the Queen’s visit to the city centre as a welcome investment in their future.
Dublin Chamber of Commerce strongly believes the visit will cause minimal to short term impact on business and traders, but others were finding the restrictions not so good for business today.
“The Queen’s visit is a springboard for tourism and marketing…it is an opportunity to communicate an international message,” said Gina Quin, chief executive of Dublin Chamber of Commerce. “Yes, there are restrictions but people will be attracted to the city for a purpose.
“Major events have positive effects on people and it will shift focus away from our current financial situation,” said Ms Quin. “We view the event as the first big test for the jobs initiative and its focus on tourism.”
As the city undergoes the largest security operation in the history of the State, no risks will be taken.
The O’Connell Street area is on lockdown as hundreds of gardaí have been deployed throughout the city, barriers have been erected, traffic restrictions are now in place and bag check points have been set up at either end.
“It’s not good for our business today, it’s dead in here,” said Marcin Grzybowski , a pharmacist from Hickey’s pharmacy on O’Connell Street. “We will suffer the inconvenience today but if it’s last for the entire week it will be hard to cope with.”
“It’s not an ideal situation for business today, people and customers are avoiding the city centre because of parking, walking restrictions and fear of trouble” said Jennifer Glanville, manager of Clarks Shoes on O’Connell Street.
“I’m not convinced the Queen’s visit will have a huge impact on our business but I do hope she can pass through O’Connell Street safely,” said a pharmacist from Hamilton Long Pharmacy.
On the other hand, larger department stores are focusing on the long term benefits of the Queen’s visit for their business.
“What better way to welcome back tourists and visitors from the UK than with Her Majesty leading the way,” said PJ Timmins, chief executive of Clerys. “One thing all retailers know is that tourists love to shop.”
Generally, the city’s business federations view the Queen’s visit as a rare chance to give Ireland the type of positive international exposure money can’t buy.
“There is a lack of confidence amongst Irish consumers and we’re talking ourselves into a greater recession and depression,” said Richard Guiney, chief executive of the Dublin City Business Improvement District. “The Queen’s visit will improve Irish consumer confidence.”
“Good media coverage is vital in encouraging marketing and tourism from the UK and the US,” said David Brennan, director of Dublin City Business Association. “We now have the opportunity to showcase traditional Irish hospitality and to get Ireland into the pages of international news.”
Although the majority seem to accept the broader implications of the Queen’s visit and what it will do for Ireland in the future, many will welcome a sharp return to business as usual.