Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise the issue of fires in Cork. There was a major fire at one of our unique buildings in Cork last night which is very troubling to everyone involved. Our Lady's Hospital in Cork is one of the most marvellous structures on the western side of the cities and it was badly damaged by fire. It brings into question how we are going to deal with buildings and structures with such history and character. This is one of the longest buildings in Ireland. It has a great name and great architecture but it has been very badly damaged by fire. The building has been empty for many years. The local authority must take ownership of a lot of these structures. Vernon Mount, another heritage house, this time on the south side of the city, was burned last year. These structures must be protected. They are part of our history and our legacy going forward. Their architectural significance is well documented and how we protect them is key. Local authorities must use the powers they have to make compulsory purchase orders to ensure these structures can be kept. I ask for the Minister of State with responsibility for local government to come to the House at some stage to discuss how he hopes to ensure that these structures will be protected in the long term in order that the heritage of these unique buildings will be retained for future generations.