Dáil debates
Wednesday, 16 July 2014
Other Questions
Public Park Access
10:20 am
Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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10. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she has sent an application to UNESCO with the intention of including the Phoenix Park on the list of UNESCO sites; her view on whether, since the park is a public one and is used frequently by the public, there should be an open consultation process to prevent possible changes such as the charging of persons for use of the area if it is designated as a UNESCO site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28360/14]
Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Comhghairdeas leis an Aire agus an Aire Stáit ina bpostanna nua. Tá súil agam go n-éireoidh leo sna postanna sin. If an application has been sent to UNESCO with the intention of including the Phoenix Park in the list of UNESCO heritage sites. It is a public park and is used extensively by the public. Residents in the area and other members of the public feared that if the park is listed as the UNESCO sites, there could be a charge for using it.
Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I understand that the Office of Public Works, which is both owner and manager of the Phoenix Park, has no plans to introduce general admission charges to the park, now or in the future.
The nomination process for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List is initiated by state authorities drawing up a tentative list of what they consider to be the most important heritage sites within their national boundaries. Following a public consultation process and consideration by an expert advisory group in 2010, "The Historic City of Dublin” was one of seven potential nominees chosen for inclusion in Ireland’s tentative list.
My Department’s policy, which mirrors that of UNESCO, is that nominations for world heritage status must be driven in the first instance by local authorities and communities. Against that background, my Department hosted a seminar in September 2013 for local authorities and community representatives from the areas of the sites on Ireland’s current tentative list to gauge the level of interest in the potential nominations and to clarify the significant research and other requirements involved in preparing nomination documentation. I understand that, in the meantime, a steering group has been established by the lead authority, Dublin City Council, with the objective of progressing the Historic City of Dublin nomination. In line with both national and UNESCO policy, any advancement of the nomination will feature extensive public consultation over the course of the nomination process and in regard to any specific proposals that might arise from it.
Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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I thank the Minister for that reply, which has many positive aspects. The Phoenix Park is an amazing facility and amenity. It is 350 years old and is larger than Central Park in New York.
There is a railway line underneath it, linked with a series of tunnels and a station. It also contains Viking burial sites, the Magazine Fort, the remains of a 5,500 year old neolithic village and the Wellington monument, which has the odd distinction of being Europe's largest phallic symbol, not to mention the wildlife, birds, flora and fauna, and a cricket club which was founded by Parnell's father. When we consider the use made of the Phoenix Park, it can be regarded as a world heritage site in itself. Even if Dublin is not awarded world heritage status, a case can be made for the park. Issues arise in regard to unregulated parking in the park and safety for pedestrians in certain areas but these could be addressed without doing serious damage to the park or undermining free access to it.
10:30 am
Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I agree with the Deputy that the Phoenix Park is a jewel in the crown. It is a tremendous facility that we need to treasure and protect. A process is under way regarding the application for UNESCO status. This process has to be led by the local authority because my Department cannot impose it. However, we are happy to support the local authority in progressing the matter. Regarding the issue of unregulated parking and traffic, I am happy to have that examined with a view to resolving it. The Deputy can speak to me later regarding specific issues.
Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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There appears to be an agenda in Dublin city against people who have cars. I would not like to see that continuing into the Phoenix Park because people use their cars to travel to the park to enjoy the amenities it offers. When we consider meters for cars, that sort of motorist should not be penalised because of those who park their cars there all day. I acknowledge the Minister's assurance that general admission charges will not be introduced but we need guidelines and actions on the traffic management plan.
Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I agree with the Deputy because it is a tremendous facility for people to go walking. They bring their cars to the park and then they go for a walk. It is great to have that facility.