Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senator for her comments. I will bring her views back to the Minister of State but will also respond in his absence. I recognise that there has been a delay in this matter and I share the Senator's disappointment that the early projections shared with her last July have turned out to be optimistic. However, it needs to be recognised that this is a very complicated undertaking involving a significant financial and technical commitment. Given the importance of the buildings and their status as a national monument, the OPW is focusing on making sure the project succeeds to the best possible extent and addresses the expectations of so many parties who have contributed to this solution. The site at 14–17 Moore Street has been waiting in what I would categorise as an extended limbo – the Senator used the word "glacial" in this regard – for almost six years since 2016.It has been the focus of much work and discussion ever since. Given this, the OPW was careful to provide precipitous arrangements and took care to address these matters carefully with all professional consultant parties involved before entering a substantial binding legal and financial commitment.

I fully accept the Senator’s position that it is now time to move forward and realise the project as soon as possible, as the OPW was instructed. The Senator will remain committed to this product, as indeed will the Minister of State, Deputy O'Donovan.