Taoiseach and Tánaiste visit projects on Cork's northside

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste both visited projects in the north east of Cork city recently, and celebrated sport, infrastructure, and housing.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin visited Brian Dillon’s GAA and Camogie Club for the inauguration of their new ball wall and astro-turf facility, along with his party colleague, deputy lord mayor Margaret McDonnell.

A spokesperson for the club said that the event marked “the culmination of years of dedicated effort”.

They added: “We extend our sincere gratitude to all who contributed to this endeavour, including our esteemed members, local businesses, and community representatives. Your collective support was instrumental in realising this project. We look forward to the future growth and success of Brian Dillon’s and our community.”

Ms McDonnell told The Echo: “It was an honour for me to deputise for the lord mayor at the official opening of the new Brian Dillon’s astro training pitch and ball wall in the Tank Field.

“These amenities are a credit to the club officials, past and present, who, down through the years, have shown determination and tenacity to continue the development of the club.

“There was a fantastic turnout of both young and old; enthusiastic supporters of the club. The atmosphere on the morning reflected the strong community support, something that will also help the ongoing development and growth of Brian Dillon’s.”

Tánaiste Simon Harris was also on the northside of Cork city recently, visiting a Ballyvolane housing development and the port of Cork.

The Tánaiste’s visit began at the Port of Cork Company headquarters at Penrose Dock, where Mr Harris was briefed by the chairperson, Michael Walsh, and CEO Ann Doherty on the port’s Masterplan 2050, the €94m container terminal at Ringaskiddy, the €99m expansion funded through the Irish Strategic Investment Fund, and plans for a €100m offshore renewable energy facility.

Speaking after the briefing, the Tánaiste said: “I had a very good meeting with the Port of Cork. I’m very excited about the projects being worked on and the potential to transform not only the city, but also our country, in terms of our energy security.”

The Tánaiste also visited the Longview Estates development in Ballyvolane, a landmark, mixed-tenure scheme delivering over 700 homes —private, social, and cost rental — at a rate of four homes per week.

When completed, the development will also provide access to schools, shops, and sports facilities.

He said: “I wanted to be here on the northside to see one of the most significant housing developments in the country: This is a really good example of a mixed-tenure development. This is exactly what we need to see: More high-quality homes delivered at scale and at pace.”