Expanded Irish Jewish Museum ‘creates a new and serious terrorist risk’

Plans to extend the Irish Jewish Museum in Dublin’s Portobello neighborhood have sparked security concerns among local residents, with some fearing the expanded building could become a target for politically motivated attacks. The museum is seeking to upgrade, expand, and refurbish its existing premises on Walworth Road.

Irish Jewish Museum Expansion Plans Face Local Opposition

Dublin City Council received 15 submissions in response to the initial plans lodged last July, with several expressing security concerns alongside general planning issues. The submissions were made during the ongoing Israel-Gaza war and amid a global rise in antisemitism, according to documents submitted to the council.

The Smillie family, residents of Walworth Street, told the council the proposed development would significantly increase the building’s visibility, creating a “new and serious terrorist risk.” They argued the expanded structure would be a “conspicuous symbol” unlike the current, more discreet museum.

“Given the current volatile political climate in the Middle East, this prominent Jewish cultural building could become a very real target for politically motivated attacks, including terrorism, violent physical protests, or acts intended to make political statements,” the Smillie family stated.

Residents Ruth and Adrian Kenny of Kingsland Parade expressed concern that the absence of an Israeli embassy in Dublin could lead to protests being directed at the new Jewish center. They believe “heavy security” and demonstrations are likely, and that Walworth Road is unsuitable for such a development.

Pauline Atkinson and James P Browne, also of Kingsland Parade, highlighted the presence of young families in the area and warned the development could be a target, posing a risk to residents.

Maurice McConnell of Walworth Rd stated residents felt “exposed to a possible criminal attack” given the current geopolitical climate. Paula Burke and Gerry Browne of Walworth Rd echoed these concerns, stating the development could pose a security risk to residents.

Support for the Museum Expansion

Despite the security concerns, Portobello resident and Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik TD voiced her support for the museum’s sustainable development. She described the museum as “an important amenity and real asset to the local community,” noting its location on Walworth Road acknowledges the rich heritage of the Jewish community in the area.

Bacik also stated that local residents “greatly value the continued presence of the Museum” and that the Council sought further information in response to local concerns, with revised plans lodged on December 4th.

Project Details and Future Steps

ODA Architecture, in a submission to Dublin City Council, described the redevelopment as a “sensitive and necessary enhancement” to the Irish Jewish Museum, ensuring its role as a cultural and educational institution. The plans involve refurbishing existing premises at 3 and 4 Walworth Rd and extending them to No 5 to create additional exhibition space and improve accessibility.

Currently, the museum receives approximately 3,500 visitors annually and is open one day a week, as well as by appointment. The expanded museum is projected to attract around 10,000 visitors per year and will employ five full-time staff and five volunteers. It will operate five days a week, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and half days from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Council is currently accepting new submissions on the revised plans until January 2nd, with a decision expected later in January.