Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 176: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the reason the move of the Abbey Theatre to a dockland location was not appropriate five years ago when it was deemed that a new location should be looked for; the reason it is an appropriate location now; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18538/05]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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Although a number of sites, including one in the Docklands area, were considered some years ago for the redevelopment of the Abbey, the conclusion reached at that stage, taking all factors into consideration, was that it was preferable to proceed at the existing location in Abbey Street. However, it subsequently emerged that the additional property needed to make redevelopment at the existing location feasible could not be acquired at a reasonable cost and within an acceptable timeframe, and the decision was taken to examine other options. A site in the Docklands is now being considered in that context.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 177: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on a report (details supplied) that 1 Granby Row was unsuitable for a relocation of the Abbey Theatre; the reason the report was not ordered before a price was looked for; if his attention had been drawn to the costs of repair and restoration of Coláiste Mhuire; if so, the extent of the costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18539/05]

John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)
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In searching for a location on which to redevelop the Abbey Theatre, the Office of Public Works identified the site of the former Coláiste Mhuire, if combined with 1 Granby Row, as a potential solution. However, when it emerged that 1 Granby Row could not be acquired for what was considered a reasonable price, the report in question was commissioned to review whether there was any way that the space available without Granby Row could be made to work. The conclusion of this report was negative. Construction costs can only be calculated in detail after a site is finally identified, and a design prepared for the relevant site.