A petition to save Dublin's Iveagh Markets in The Liberties has reached 1000 signatures today. Originally launched in 2018, Reclaim the Iveagh Markets is racking up support after gaining traction on social media.

Iveagh Markets is a historic building on Francis Street that was abandoned after trading ceased there in 1997. The building, which was gifted to the people of Dublin by the Earl of Iveagh in 1906, served the community for over 90 years.

Now derelict, the petition is calling on Dublin City Council to restore the Markets and make them available to the public once more.

"The building needs to be returned to Dublin City Council so that the council and the community it serves can decide together on the future of this iconic Dublin building and how best it can serve its community," the petition states.

It is asking hotelier and business man Martin Keane to return the keys to the premises.

This should happen before the winter to complete restoration work on the Edwardian indoor market before harsh conditions can make any more damage, according to the petition.

Keane signed a lease with Dublin Corporation over 20 years ago on the back of a €100 million plan to redevelop the historic building, but has not yet delivered on his promises.

PLEASE SIGN!!
Petition to help save the historic Iveagh Markets Francis Street Dublin. Only takes a second then please share to entice as many signatures as possible. Thanks. https://t.co/J7T6zU1zI0 pic.twitter.com/Qze19SihJn

— Old Ireland (@OldeEire) December 5, 2022

Supporters stated their reasons for signing the petition. "It makes me sad to see a beautiful and important building being left to decay. It's an important part of our heritage," Brenda F. explained.

"As a Market Trader in Dublin I've wondered why a purpose built market in historical Dublin wasn't being used but left derelict. Small Sole Traders like me are crying out for permanent place to trade. Please DCC and Local Enterprise Dublin we need your assistance," Margaret B. wrote back in 2018.

Iveagh Markets housed a bustling market until the '90s, with stalls selling second-hand clothing, groceries and meats.

Sign the petition to save Iveagh Markets here.