Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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407. To ask the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the reason the National Gallery of Ireland removed the magnolia trees just inside their Merrion Square entrance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19026/14]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North-West Limerick, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, I have no responsibility for the day to day running of the National Gallery. However, I have been informed that part of the major restoration project underway at the National Gallery includes the provision of a new energy centre, which is necessary to provide modern environmental conditions and services in line with best international museum practice. I am advised that it was not possible to keep the existing magnolia trees, which are located where the energy centre will be built. I am informed that a group of new magnolia trees will be planted instead in the west corner of the lawn to complete the garden composition.