Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I note that the Minister of State refers to heritage, which is important, but, obviously, from the point of view of the residents of the flats, it is of secondary importance. The problem with the flats is that they were built in the 1930s, and many were built to a size that would not be acceptable today. For example, the one bedroom apartments are there are 37 sq. m to 39 sq. m, compared with the current minimum standard of 45 sq. m. Two bedroom residences are 49 sq. m to 56 sq. m, compared with the minimum standard now of 73 sq. m, and three bedroom apartments are approximately 62 sq. m, compared with the minimum standard now of 90 sq. m.

I have had the opportunity to speak with the Minister about the matter and I know he is committed to seeing this work through. In fairness, he has committed to a meeting which we will have in due course. For the residents in the flat complex, it is important that the Department sends out a message that it will not let Dublin City Council let this drift on for ten to 15 years. The people living in the flats need to see the work being done promptly. The dampness is not just a societal issue but a health issue. I ask the Minister of State to expedite it and ensure that works are done.

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