Max HeyraudDublin’s Night-Time Economy Advisor Ray O’Donoghue says the capital is catching up with other European cities but needs reform and investment to build a stronger nightlife culture.
Speaking at Dublin’s first major conference dedicated to the night-time economy, O’Donoghue said Ireland remains behind other European cities that have spent decades developing strategies for life after dark. “Nothing happens overnight,” he said. “We’re behind, but we’re catching up, we’re getting there and I think now’s the time for policymakers to take the night-time economy seriously.”
O’Donoghue said Dublin’s night-time economy should not be viewed simply through the traditional pub and nightclub model, but should include everything from live music and cultural events to transport, safety and public spaces. He also criticised the country’s licensing system, saying: “We’ve got laws that go back to the 1800s, we’ve got dance licences that go back to the 1930s.” He stressed that reform was not simply about allowing venues to stay open later, but about creating “licensing laws that a modern European capital should have.”
Grassroots venues were another major focus, with O’Donoghue highlighting their role in developing Irish artists before they reach major stages. “Whether it’s Fontaines D.C. or CMAT, they don’t start in Slane or in Malahide Castle,” he said. “Those grassroots venues are integral and are really important.” He argued that supporting smaller venues is essential to maintaining the pipeline of new music and culture in the capital.
The changing shape of Dublin after dark is already being reflected in initiatives such as Dublin by Dusk, which brings together cultural venues, restaurants and hospitality businesses for later-night events. Dublin Nights Mapped has also highlighted dozens of things to do after 6pm beyond traditional pubs, clubs and restaurants, with O’Donoghue saying the project has attracted significant public interest.
O’Donoghue also pushed back against criticism that Dublin has become a “kip” or that the city is “dead”. “Don’t tell me Dublin is a kip. Don’t tell me it’s dead. And don’t tell me there’s nothing happening here,” he said, while acknowledging the challenges facing the capital.
He said Dublin still needs more late transport, affordable cultural spaces, better protection for late-night venues and reform of its licensing laws. Housing and safety also remain major concerns, particularly for people working in hospitality and the cultural sector. “None of that is an argument for doing nothing.”
The wider conference is examining the future of Dublin’s pubs, clubs and grassroots venues, as well as the role of culture and major events in the city. For O’Donoghue, the challenge is to address Dublin’s wider problems while continuing to build a city that has something happening after dark.
