“Upon hearing the announcement by SDCC regarding the future of the Swiftbrook Paper Mill I was deeply concerned and disappointed. I spoke to a number of Saggart residents who were dismayed at the prospect that the site will be used to promote local tourism and celebrate the heritage of the area.
“During a meeting in last month with the Saggart Village Residents Association sub-committee on planning residents told representatives that visitors to the City West hotel would on occasion walk down to village area and would leave without knowing where the sites of local importance are. Swiftbrook is one such site.
“South Dublin County Council are ignoring the legacy of Swiftbrook which formed a central part in the social and economic life of Saggart Village. They are also ignoring how important the site is with regards to National History. James Connolly used Swiftbrook to publish his work and the paper from Swiftbrook was used in the Proclamation
“SDCC are missing out on a major opportunity to invest in the tourism potential of Saggart which will help the local economy, provide jobs and enterprise opportunities for local residents. I urge SDCC to reconsider and go back to the drawing table and consult with all stakeholders – especially the residents of Saggart themselves.
Pic Credit: Saggart Village Residents Association