As part of the Government programme to rationalise state agencies, the Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) is to be integrated into Dublin City Council. The Digital Hub, created in 2003, is a government project aimed at creating an international centre of excellence for digital enterprises.
In the November 2011 report on public sector reform, the Digital Hub Development Agency was highlighted for a merger, with either Enterprise Ireland or the IDA. However, according to the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte TD, it was decided that the most appropriate arrangements in respect of the Digital Hub Development Agency was that it would transition to Dublin City Council. He said: “Dublin City Council is keen to develop Dublin as a hub for digital and green enterprises. It also has considerable experience in the management and development of property and in urban regeneration. This makes the Council particularly well placed to oversee the continued management of the Digital Hub Development Agency.”
To date, over 170 digital enterprises and over 2,000 jobs have been supported by the Digital Hub. The project also has a significant community development remit: based in the Liberties in Dublin’s south-west inner city, it has focused on regenerating the physical environment on its nine-acre campus and promoting community learning activities, in addition to its enterprise development work, which is specifically focused on the high-growth digital media / internet sector.
Philip Flynn, Chief Executive Officer of the DHDA welcomed today’s announcement. He added: “Moving to the City Council now will allow the Digital Hub to continue to operate effectively while at the same time realising important cost savings for the Exchequer. The move will bring particular benefits in relation to the project’s enterprise, property management, learning and community functions. Dublin City Council has a wealth of expertise in relevant areas and, furthermore, has property interests adjacent to those of the Digital Hub.”
Mr Flynn said: “I want to stress that the Digital Hub is open for business and will continue to be throughout and beyond the transition. This move will not impact on the tenancy arrangements we have in place with the 70-plus digital enterprises currently located at the Hub. The project will continue to serve existing tenants and facilitate prospective new tenants, as well as proactively engaging with the local community in Dublin 8.”
A transition plan will now be worked on by the Department of Communications and there will a transition period over the next number of months.