Posted 4 weeks ago by raymcadam Arbour Hill

Commemorating James Franey in #Stoneybatter

A commemorative plaque was unveiled today in Halliday Square, Stonybatter, by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor Ray McAdam, marking the life and civic generosity of James Franey, whose donation of land to Dublin Corporation in 1997 created Halliday Park as a lasting public amenity for the people of the city. The plaque was proposed by James Franey’s descendants. Seen here at the ceremony are his daughters Maura and Frances and son Jim with Paul Maher(left), grandson, who was the proposer of the Plaque. .
Photo: Fennell Photography

On a cold Saturday morning earlier this month, I had the privilege of joining neighbours in Halliday Square Park, Dublin 7 to unveil a new plaque honouring James Franey — a local man whose generosity gave our community one of its most valued green spaces.

James Franey was born in 1912 and lived nearby at 32 Viking Road. He worked for many years as a baker in Boland’s Mills, and he was also one of the founding members of the Halston Street Parish Credit Union — a reminder that strong communities are built through everyday commitment.

After retiring, James purchased the plot of land at Halliday Square from the Whelan family of 35 Manor Place. With the help of his friend Kevin Downes of 147 Oxmantown Road (a former groundsman at Áras an Uachtaráin), he cultivated fruit and vegetables there for many years — tending the space with care and pride.

But it was James’s decision in later life that became his lasting legacy. As he grew older and was no longer able to maintain the plot, he donated the land to the people of Dublin through Dublin Corporation on 28 July 1997. Because of that single act of civic generosity, Halliday Square is not just a patch of green — it’s a shared place, a neighbourhood meeting point, and a public asset that will serve generations to come.

In a city that is constantly changing, it’s important to pause and honour the people who quietly shape Dublin’s character for the better. James Franey’s story is a powerful reminder that the spirit of Dublin is found in acts of stewardship, community-mindedness, and the belief that what we leave behind should be something others can enjoy.

You can read my full remarks from the unveiling here:

James Franey plaque unveiling Speech 100126 Download