Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 585: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for the National Monument of 14, 15, 16 and 17 Moore Street; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32194/07]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
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While appropriate statutory protection by way of a preservation order has been extended to the buildings in question under the National Monuments Act, 1930, as amended, day-to-day protection and upkeep are primarily the responsibility of the buildings' owners.

My Department is ensuring that the buildings' owners, and the agents preparing proposals for the re-development of the area in which the buildings are located are fully aware of the legal protection extending to the buildings and of their obligations in this regard. My Department is also available to provide any relevant advice sought by the owners or agents on matters relating to the conservation and protection of the buildings.

Some informal discussions have taken place, on a without prejudice basis, between my Department and the agents responsible for preparing the development proposals, with a view to ensuring that they are fully aware of and responsive to the legal requirements attaching to the preservation order. They have also been advised that any proposed works affecting the national monument require my prior written consent. Before giving any such consent I am required to consult with the Director of the National Museum of Ireland.