Eric Byrne (Dublin South Central, Labour)
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368. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans for a programme of restoration to the historical Magazine Fort which occupies a commanding location within the Phoenix Park but which is empty, unused and derelict; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34146/14]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that their primary focus is to protect and conserve the existing buildings and fortifications of the Magazine Fort, which is a protected structure. The Fort is regularly inspected for evidence of any unauthorised access and routine maintenance works are carried out when required. I recently inspected the site myself as part of a more general visit to the Phoenix Park.

It is planned to carry out certain limited refurbishment works that would facilitate public access to sections of the Fort as and when resources become available for this purpose. Anything like a full restoration programme is not a practical proposition in the current economic climate. However, the Office of Public Works is open to proposals or ideas for restoration of the Magazine Fort subject to their being suitable to the site and subject to appropriate funding being available.