Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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105. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his plans for the opening to the public of the recently refurbished tower by the OPW at Roscommon Castle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3439/21]

Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick County, Fine Gael)
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I am delighted to confirm that refurbishment and access works to the south-facing tower of Roscommon Castle overlooking the town park have now been completed. This 13th Century Castle is an important National Monument and visitor attraction for the area. The timber overlay steps to protect the original ancient stone stairway and provide safe access were individually sized and crafted by the OPW skilled carpenters and apprentices at the National Monuments Athenry Workshops and the discrete safety handrail was supplied by a local engineering firm. This project was part of a coordinated development with Roscommon County Council who extended visitor parking and provided flood lighting for the Castle and I would like to acknowledge their assistance and support.

For health and safety reasons, visitors to the recently refurbished south west tower of Roscommon Castle must be accompanied. OPW expects to partner with the Roscommon Community Tourist Volunteer Group to assist with this and it is hoped, at this stage, that visitors can access the tower about Easter this year. This is dependent on a number of matters not least of which might be Covid 19 pandemic requirements at that time.