Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am supportive of the Priory Hall residents and my Department is supporting the efforts of Dublin City Council in that regard. At my request, the Department has previously assisted the council, in consultation with NAMA, to secure alternative temporary accommodation for many of the residents. My Department has to date contributed in excess of €500,000 towards the costs necessarily incurred by Dublin City Council, in the context of a judgment of the High Court, in providing temporary accommodation for households evacuated from Priory Hall.

The resolution process in respect of the problems associated with this development which I understand is ongoing arose in the context of legal proceedings which were adjourned to afford relevant parties the opportunity to work together under the chairmanship of the retired President of the High Court, Mr. Justice Finnegan, to identify a way forward on the complex problems at Priory Hall. Given that the matter is before the courts, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further other than to continue to urge all concerned to afford Mr. Justice Finnegan the opportunity to complete the task he is undertaking.

Dublin City Council is the designated authority with powers to enforce the statutory requirements arising under the Fire Safety Act, the Building Control Acts and the Planning and Development Acts, all of which are at issue in Priory Hall. The council is also the designated housing authority under the Housing Acts. Neither I nor my Department has a direct role or responsibility in the exercise of these statutory responsibilities. I am aware of the significant efforts made by the council, with the assistance of my Department, to provide for the needs of residents to date. I understand that the council will continue to work proactively on behalf of the residents towards achieving the much needed resolution of the issues at Priory Hall.

See this speech in context