The challenges facing visitor attractions in Dublin were discusses at the AVEA o=conference by a panel that included Catherine Toolan, Brendan Kavanagh and Aileesh Carew.
Subjects raised by the panel and attendees contributing form the floor included safety, cleanliness, way finding, the fabric of the public realm and inadequacy of public transport. While international data shows Dublin is a safe city, the demeanor and appearance of the streets immediately surrounding some key attractions was criticized from the floor.
Catherine Toolan revealed the Guinness Storehouse, celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, welcomed nearly 26m visitors since opening. She noted the proposals in The Dublin City Centre Taskforce chaired by David McRedmond: “There’s lots of plans and in all of those plans, it talks about safety security and pledgees, and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.”
Brendan Kavanagh highlighted challenges in attracting visitors to Glasnevin Cemetery due to limited public transport connectivity from Dublin’s city centre.
Aileesh Carew noted the transformation of Dublin’s docklands since EPIC Ireland’s opening in 2016, with new attractions like the Pump House and Water Sports Centre.
Dublin’s major attractions, including Trinity College and EPIC, welcome 3.5 to 4m visitors annually, but urban cleanliness and safety remain concerns.
The Dublin Taskforce, supported by Dublin City Council, aims to improve public realm and transport to enhance visitor experiences by 2035.
Catherine Toolan shared: “The data does not infer that Dublin is an unsafe city.”
Brendan Kavanagh shared: “Our focus is to give the most passionate, expressive experience when they’re there.”
Aileesh Carew shared: “I would really love to see the Liffey animated with places for coffee, with little places for kids and families to play.”
