Thomas Gould (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein)
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547. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she has examined the tourism potential of the old Cork prison site. [22135/22]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware, the former Cork prison was built in the early 1800s and served as a military detention barracks until it was transferred to the ownership of my Department in 1972.

Due to the age, fabric and condition of the building including lack of in-cell sanitation, a decision was taken in 2014 to close it and construct a new modern prison on a site opposite the former prison.

I am advised that the Irish Prison Service has no strategic use for the former prison and remains open to receive submissions on how the building or site might be used to maximise its potential.

The Service has also advised that they have not received any submissions on the potential use of the facility by any organisation or agency for tourism purposes.

The condition of the former prison including building fabric, condition, age and lack of services and the requirement to comply with health, safety and building regulations will have to be taken into consideration by any entity wishing to repurpose the building.