James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I again thank the Deputy for raising this important matter of the future of Desmond Castle in Kinsale. As I said, this is a complex project with several elements, all of which will have to come together when work starts on the site. Appointing the specialist design team is the first step in the process, which has begun. While it was anticipated the repair and conservation project would be well advanced at this stage, the impact of the pandemic on work programmes and the redirection of internal resources cannot be overstated. Work has commenced on assembling the full design team, however, and I assure the Deputy progress is being made.

As for the question on engagement, I will bring his concerns to the Minister of State, although I am sure all necessary engagements will be carried out. The OPW expects the repair works contract will be carried out by external contractors, with particular conservation elements undertaken by the OPW's skilled workforce.

The target is to have the full design process under way and potentially completed by this year. The OPW appreciates the importance of the castle locally and it is not ideal that the property has remained closed to visitors. The completion of the design phase of the project was also impacted by the pandemic, as I stated, and the OPW’s internal resources came under pressure. However, the OPW sees an opportunity to consider the site afresh, with a view to interpreting its varied history and bringing it to the attention of more visitors to the region. The design phase of the project, therefore, will bring a new focus on the history of the property, with the 1601 rebellion perhaps being a central theme that can be explored.

I thank Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan for raising this important matter. I will relay all of the Deputy’s comments to the Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW.

See this speech in context