Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 49: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the status of the Natural History Museum; the proposed refurbishment works which are to be carried out; the proposed works which will not be carried out; when he expects the museum to open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8515/09]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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As stated in my reply to Question Nos. 102 and 11, on 28th January 2009, an extensive refurbishment and redevelopment plan has been drawn up for the Natural History Museum at an estimated cost outside the scope and capacity of current budgets. This plan included work to the fabric of the building as well as environmental controls and a new glass extension to facilitate disabled access and to provide some additional visitor facilities.

In view of the cost implications arising from the extensive nature of the proposed plan and as the re-opening of the Natural History Museum is a priority, the Office of Public Works, at the request of my Department, examined alternative approaches to facilitate re-opening of the Natural History Museum at the earliest possible opportunity.

It has been my strong wish that the Museum would be re-opened for the commencement of the school year this September. I am pleased to say that a programme of works has been agreed with the intention of facilitating the reopening of the Natural History Museum within that timescale. The works will comprise essential health and safety interventions as well as some upgrading and repairs to the Museum.

The major development proposals for the National History Museum will have to be put on hold until the necessary financial resources are available.