Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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291. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason some equipment in a park (details supplied) has been removed while the same equipment is in other OPW sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28379/20]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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Two items of play equipment have been removed on Health and Safety grounds as they posed a danger to children. Firstly, a pylon carousel developed a large hole through which children could fall. OPW assessed the item in question and established that the equipment had deteriorated due to extensive use. The other item is a disabled swing seat and this has been removed due to a worn safety strap.

Due to the Covid -19 pandemic it was difficult initially to source replacement equipment. However, I am pleased to advise that OPW is finalising the procurement of replacement items to be installed before the end of the year.

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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292. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when a premises in an OPW site (details supplied) will be up for tender to rent and or lease out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28380/20]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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The Café concession at John F. Kennedy Arboretum operates on a seasonal basis and normally opens between March and mid-November of each year. The last trading period concluded in November 2019.

OPW had planned to tender this concession opportunity in March 2020 but this was postponed due to the outbreak of Covid-19. OPW is currently finalising tender documentation with a view to advertising this concession opportunity by public tender before the end of the year. It is hoped that the successful bidder will be in a position to open the café for the 2021 season subject to the prevailing health advices and Government restrictions at the time.

During this recent period of closure of the café, OPW has taken the opportunity to carry out a survey of the premises to identify any necessary works that might be required to achieve compliance with the COVID-19 related operational guidance for social distancing, sanitisation etc. These minor works will be undertaken early in 2021.