Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this issue. As she is aware, on the night of 8 and 9 February 2020, extensive damage was caused to Carlow Castle following Storm Ciara. Subsequent investigations led to the discovery that the base of the collapse was constructed on clay foundations. This had major consequences for the safe repair and reconstruction of this section of the wall. The Office of Public Works is in the final stages of rebuilding the collapsed area of the tower. Once the steelwork is down, the OPW can complete the rebuild and repair of the part of the tower that collapsed. It is expected that there is approximately three to five weeks' work remaining.

As I said to the Deputy when I met her the other day in south Kilkenny, with Deputy Phelan, I hope to be back in Carlow-Kilkenny within the next month and I hope to meet her then. There are a number of different projects in Carlow town and the surrounding areas. I hope to visit Carlow Castle, with my officials in the OPW to get an update on the works under way and the progress that is being made. This issue is of interest not only to the Deputy and other public representatives, but to Carlow County Council and the tourism community in Carlow.

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