Press release
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Micheál Martin Opens New Headquarters for Dublin Civil Defence
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Last updated on
Published on
Last updated on
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence, Micheál Martin T.D., today (30 September 2024) officially opened the new Headquarters for Dublin Civil Defence in Cherry Orchard, Dublin.
This new purpose-designed facility comprises over 1,800 square meters of space on a 1.1-acre site. It will serve as a vital hub for Dublin Civil Defence, the largest in the country with over 200 volunteers, supporting its mission to provide voluntary emergency services to communities across the city and county.
The building includes offices, training spaces, vehicles bays, and storage for the Civil Defence’s extensive range of equipment. It will replace the current facility at the Esplanade on Wolfe Tone Quay.
Speaking at the opening today, the Tánaiste said: “The Civil Defence plays a vital role in supporting the frontline emergency services in times of need, with dedicated volunteers working hard to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens in times of crisis. I am delighted to open this modern new facility that will support the important work of the Dublin Civil Defence.
“My Department continues to work with Civil Defence Officers and Councils across the State to improve the standard of Civil Defence facilities. As well as this new headquarters here in Dublin, other new facilities have also opened in Westmeath and Cavan. As Minister for Defence, I am committed to continued investment in the Civil Defence, to ensure that this invaluable organisation continues to grow and fulfil its crucial role in Irish society.”
ENDS
Note for Editors
• Civil Defence Ireland is an organisation comprising almost entirely of volunteers. Over 2,000 trained Civil Defence volunteers play a vital role in providing aid and assistance in time of emergencies in support of the professional emergency services.
• Dublin Civil Defence is the largest unit in the country with over 200 Volunteers. While most Units across the State report to a single local authority, Dublin Civil Defences covers all County Dublin across four local authorities.
• The new Dublin Civil Defence headquarters has been repurposed from its previous role as a traffic depot for Dublin City Council. The building has been extensively renovated to include the offices, training spaces and vehicles bays appropriate to Civil Defence needs.
• Dublin Civil Defence headquarters has been at the Esplanade on Wolfe Tone Quay since 1993. The new facility in Cherry Orchard was fully supported by the four Dublin Councils and the Department of Defence, and will enhance our ability to train, coordinate, and equip our volunteers to meet the challenges of the future.
• Towards 2030, the strategy for the modernisation of the Civil Defence in Ireland, emphasises the roles of the Department of Defence and local authorities in ensuring Civil Defence Units have the buildings and equipment they need to support them in their duties.