merrion street

Andrew Montague, Lord Mayor of Dublin and Brian Hayes, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works (OPW) today launched the “Mad Hatters' Street Party”, hosted by the OPW, as one of many forthcoming events to celebrate the 350th anniversary of the establishment of the Phoenix Park.

Speaking in the Park today the Lord Mayor of Dublin Andrew Montague said “The Phoenix Park has been a centre of Dublin historic, sporting and recreational life for 350 years. I congratulate the OPW on the series of events that have been organised to celebrate this special anniversary. The opening of Chesterfield Avenue at weekends to pedestrians, cyclists, and runners is a wonderful opportunity for safe and healthy activities. It gives me great pleasure to be involved in the first of these weekends.”

Minister Hayes added: “I am delighted to welcome the Lord Mayor of Dublin to join with me in launching this wonderful fun event here today. The Phoenix Park is celebrating the 350th anniversary of its establishment as a Royal Deer Park and the OPW has proudly been looking after it since 1860.”

The Minister concluded: “This is a magnificent amenity for all in the heart of Dublin City

and access to this wonderful space is free. I look forward to seeing the various projects and events unfold throughout the year and a full list of these events is available on www.phoenixpark.ie”.