In their newly launched urban communities policy document, the party pledges to increase the Garda force to 20,000 officers if elected.

The document highlights Fianna Fáil’s commitment to a health-led approach to drug use, but it does not propose specific drug-related healthcare or addiction services. Instead, it calls for tougher sentencing and a stronger Garda response. Senator Mary Fitzpatrick explained that health-related proposals would be addressed under “health” and “justice” policies.

The policy document also suggests justice measures with substantial costs, including a €175 million urban development fund and €236 million to expand the Garda force by 5,000. Additional proposals include a transport police unit and enhanced Garda powers for tackling anti-social behavior, such as dispersal and public-space protection orders.

Junior Justice Minister James Browne pointed to urban decay, crime, and transient populations as significant challenges for urban communities.

In response to the absence of specific health-led measures in the drugs section, Fitzpatrick reiterated Fianna Fáil’s support for recommendations from the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Drugs. She noted that the party backs safe injection centers, with one potentially opening soon in Dublin, and suggested locating additional centers in areas beyond the city to broaden access.

On the same day, the Social Democrats introduced a €200 million plan to revitalize Dublin city center, including measures to convert unused upper-floor units into housing for up to 10,000 households. Dublin Central representative Gary Gannon criticized Fine Gael, accusing Taoiseach Simon Harris of “extreme cynicism” for releasing the ”ublin City Centre Taskforce report post-Budget. He called for a comprehensive plan to counteract urban decay and strengthen city infrastructure.

The Social Democrats’ proposal includes €200 million in dedicated funding, measures to facilitate above-the-shop living, streamlined CPOs for vacant sites, an increased Garda presence, and a Cultural Corridor from Henrietta Street to St. James’ Gate. Other measures include a higher vacancy tax, restoring waste management control to Dublin City Council, a new tourist bed tax, a reduced VAT rate for hospitality businesses, and more recreational facilities for youth.

Elsewhere, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald attended a rally advocating for the preservation and renewal of Moore Street. McDonald criticized both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael for not intervening against a private development project that threatens the historic site, tied to the 1916 Rising. She urged voters to support Sinn Féin in the election to ensure a government that values Ireland’s history and cultural heritage.