Former nighttime adviser Fiona Collins urges Cork to keep focus on after-dark offering as role discontinued

Former Cork city nighttime economy adviser Fiona Collins has said she hopes the development of the city's nightlife sector remains a priority after her role was discontinued last month.

Ms Collins, who was appointed in 2023 as part of a national pilot programme aimed at expanding evening and nighttime activity, said having a dedicated adviser helped co-ordinate and strengthen the city's after-dark offering.

While expressing disappointment that the position has come to an end, she said she believed the work undertaken in recent years had laid solid foundations for future progress.

Ms Collins told The Echo: “Having a nighttime economy advisor improves the entire ecosystem of night time in a city.

“Due to cost savings, the role was done away with. But there is a full nighttime strategy in place that can continue to be worked on and I hope it will be."

At a recent meeting of Cork City Council, Cormac Ó Súilleabháin, director of city centre development and operations, said the Department of Culture had advised that the nighttime economy pilot project will conclude in June 2027.

“I worked on a number of great initiatives and there is huge potential. Cork has so much to offer both residents and visitors alike," said Ms Collins, who is also chair of Guinness Cork Jazz Festival, which took place over the October bank holiday weekend.

Cities around the world have looked at and grown their nighttime economy. I don't think Cork should be any different.

Calls to continue support for nighttime economy

Advocates for nightlife in Cork city expressed disappointment at the decision not to continue the nighttime economy advisor position.

Natalie McCormack, founder of Cork-based initiative the Electronic Music Council, told The Echo she hopes Cork City Council will continue to back the development of the city's nighttime economy.

“I am sad to hear Fiona’s position that it has ended. I would like to see a continuation of support for our nighttime economy," she said.

“The best way to do that is to have a person that oversees that.” 

A spokesperson for Cork City Council said it remains committed to the promotion of the nighttime economy.

“The nighttime economy pilot has successfully broadened the city’s after-dark offer beyond traditional pubs and nightlife and has increased awareness of the economic and social potential of a more diverse nighttime culture.

“Subject to funding, the pilot programme will continue to be delivered by the city centre and tourism team within the city centre development and operations directorate until it concludes in June 2027.

“Cork City Council has developed Cork’s nighttime economy strategy, which sets out almost 40 actions covering safety, culture, transport, accessibility, and city animation.

“Additionally, the city council will continue to avail of central government funding where offered.”