Pádraig O'Sullivan (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

275. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the timeframe for the completion of works at a premises (details supplied) in County Cork; the works that have taken place between 2015 since the structure was closed to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14060/22]

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

Works have taken place at Conna Castle on an ongoing basis since 2015.  However, due to the pandemic and the resourcing of other projects, works were temporarily suspended in the last two years. It is hoped to resume works there by the end of 2022.

Since 2015 a number of works have taken place at the castle, including localised repointing of the interior, upgrading of security grills to windows and openings on the interior to make it safe.

In 2019, a significant project was undertaken which involved the installation of a temporary timber lintel and corbels to the upper battlements of the castle.  This temporary measure was required to secure a particular section of the battlements that had become vulnerable to stone loss and OPW anticipates replacing the temporary works with stone as part of ongoing works on the site in the future.

Scaffolding will need to be installed to the exterior of the building for further works to be undertaken which will include localised repointing of the exterior and the removal of organic growth. I am pleased to advise that the grounds surrounding the Castle remain open to the public for the enjoyment of visitors and normal landscaping maintenance continues at the site.