Call to Action original deadline 30th September 2023 extended to 6th October - Some Key Points to Note

• The OPW have invited the public to submit observations on the Events in the Iveagh Garden. See OPW notification below.

• We encourage you to participate in the OPW’s public consultation on “Events in Iveagh Gardens” by emailing eventsiveaghgardens@opw.ie before the 30th September deadline.

• Friends Of Iveagh Garden is not anti events but do not support:

  • the duration of the privatised commercial mid-summer events which lasted 52 days from 05/06/2023 to 03/08/2023d

    • there were only 18 “show” days

    • 34 were “non show” days and were either build (14), take down (9) or idle (11) days which is excessive

  • the extent of resultant closure of circa 50% the gardens to the community.

• Historically the events have paid a rent to the OPW that on the surface seems to be a peppercorn rent.

• The mid-summer events that run from 5th June to 3rd August are outlined HERE

• The Iveagh Gardens is one of very few green outdoor places available to the living and working community in the area and we believe its availability plays a huge part in the maintaining of the communities physical and mental well-being. The benefits of outdoor space to our communities physical and mental health is well documented nationally and internationally. Mid-summer is the time of peak need to access this space by the community.

• In addition to the community who live in the area there is a burgeoning office community fuelled through an increasing amount of large commercial property being developed. Where are these workers expected to go during their breaks?

• As a resident, worker or visitor to the gardens perhaps yourself or someone from your family or offices may wish to make observation.