There are just two public toilets in Dublin city centre – this is clearly an untenable situation for the summer months
The OPW should open its public buildings to increase the provision of restroom facilities in Dublin city centre, according to Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon TD.
Deputy Gannon stated:
“The inadequate provision of public toilets greatly limits people’s enjoyment of our city and is also a gender and accessibility issue. Consider menstruation, pregnancy, families with toddlers or those being assisted by carers. Public toilets are essential. This is not a mere inconvenience. It is a health, wellbeing, gender and accessibility issue that urgently needs to be addressed.
“I welcome the fact that the OPW, in response to a request from the Social Democrats, has confirmed plans to increase the number of public toilets at the Phoenix Park. However, this does not go far enough. There are just two public toilets in Dublin city centre currently – at St Stephen’s Green and Wolfe Tone Square. This is clearly an untenable situation for the summer months when the public is being asked to socialise outdoors to reduce covid transmission.
“The OPW manages over 2,000 buildings spread over 1,700 properties throughout the country and Dublin City Council also manages many buildings in our city. If they were to collaborate, the lack of toilet facilities could be addressed.
“This is not an issue that can be left to the private sector to resolve. State bodies need to act, now.”
21 April, 2021
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