22nd February 2021 Minister Michael McGrath TDDepartment of Public Expenditure and Reform By email: NRRPConsultation@taoiseach.gov.ieGovernment Buildings, Upper Merrion Street, D02 R583, Ireland Re: National Recovery and Resilience Plan Public ConsultationDear Minister McGrath,I write in relation to the drafting of Ireland’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), which will be submitted to the European Commission in order to access funding from the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). Ireland should receive €853 million in the first tranche of grants from this fund, and a further amount in loans.The overall aim of the fund is to assist EU Member States in their recovery from the immense economic and social downturn resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The European Commission has issued certain conditions according to which the money must be spent. These include the requirement for 37% of the funds to be spent on fighting climate change and encouraging the green transition.To that end, I am writing to highlight certain areas where I believe Ireland should be investing its portion of the RRF. It is crucial that our recovery from this crisis leads us towards a just transition; one that is socially and environmentally sustainable.

1. Housing and building renovation

The provision of social and affordable housing, and the deep energy renovation of buildings, should be top priorities in Ireland’s plan. To launch a ‘renovation wave’ will require targeted investment in public buildings and financial incentives for private homeowners. Citizens stand to gain immeasurably from buildings that are safer and more comfortable for them to live and work in. We urgently need to increase the supply of social housing, and must not forget to tackle energy poverty in tandem. Additionally, energy efficient buildings will go a long way in helping us to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Public transport and active travel

Thankfully, we will not always be subjected to nationwide lockdowns and travel restrictions. Once we are able to go beyond 5km again, let us make sure we are doing it in ways that are good for our health and the environment. The RRF represents a significant opportunity for funding in the area of public transport and active travel. From projects to improve our rail infrastructure, to encouraging uptake of cycling and walking in our cities, investments in a sustainable mobility system are needed to promote the well-being of our citizens and the planet.

3. Dublin’s markets

A just recovery from the economic hit of the coronavirus means looking after small businesses. Investment in the covered market areas of Dublin, including the Iveagh buildings and the Fruit, Vegetable and Flower Market near Capel St, and the outdoors markets of Moore Street and elsewhere will support the livelihoods of local traders, as well as reviving footfall for other businesses in these areas.

4. Areas of Multiple Deprivation

Finally, Minister, I wish to highlight the worrying trends arising from lack of sufficient investment in areas that suffer from multiple deprivation. As the MEP for Dublin, I am deeply concerned by recent reports of violent attacks particularly in the North Inner City, and I suggest that there be increased investment in public and affordable housing, public realm improvements, and education and training as a priority.Sincerely,Ciarán CuffeCiarán CUFFE, MEP for DublinLink to submission here.