Neasa Hourigan (Dublin Central, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

279. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the historical gates of the Phoenix Park removed in summer 2018; when the original gates will be restored and returned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1745/21]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Office of Public Works obtained permission, under Section 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000-2002 (as amended) to remove seven pairs of gates and ancillary structures, from vehicular and pedestrian entrances at the perimeter of the Phoenix Park, in order to facilitate the free and safe movement of people and vehicles for the Papal visit to the Phoenix Park in 2018, and for their repair, refurbishment and reinstatement, to include in situ stone repair works at their existing locations. 

All seven pairs of gates have now been refurbished and returned to the OPW for rehanging. 

Works on the Knockmaroon gates, which were undertaken in situ, were completed in August 2020. The North Circular Road gates were fully restored and rehung in early December 2020. 

The rehanging of the remaining gates located at Castleknock, Chapelizod, Blackhorse Avenue, Cabra and Islandbridge, including repair works to stonework and railings, was due to be completed over the coming weeks.  However these works are now temporarily paused due to the requirements of the Level 5 restrictions of the Government's Plan for Living with Covid-19.  

Work will resume as soon as practicable with the objective of finalising same within the coming months.