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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 190 and 191 together.

Following an open tender process, OPW has appointed a multi-disciplinary professional team to undertake a study of the Clonmancnoise National Monument with a view to making recommendations for its future development so it can continue to actively contribute to the local tourism and business economy while retaining its key status as an iconic National Monument site.

This team has been working closely with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the Local Authority, Community Groups and relevant State Agencies including Fáilte Ireland. In line with inter-agency objectives, the teams have in particular been working to develop visitor experiences and facilities whilst ensuring opportunities exist for supporting local enterprise and infrastructure in Shannonbridge and surrounding areas. The development opportunities offered by the Fáilte Ireland Just Transitionprogramme should be transformative for the region. Stakeholder organisations have been working closely particularly with Failte Ireland to maximise the opportunities it presents within its terms of reference to ensure the best possible outcomes for the region’s economy. A number of specific areas are being actively examined including sustainability, adherence to climate action targets, transport strategy etc.

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

192. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 512 of 11 September 2023, if a design team has been appointed to restore the remaining portion of Carlow Courthouse railings; and if a date for commencement and completion of these works has been identified. [50695/23]

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

Conservation of the railings at Carlow Courthouse was initiated in 2016 by Office of Public Works conservation architects. It was decided to carry out the work on the basis of an initial pilot phase on ten sections of the railings. This was a trial exercise to establish a correct works methodology and to gain as much cost certainty as possible for the future phases of work. Repairs and restoration works remain to be carried out on 50 sections of railings. Due to Covid-19, the pilot phase was delayed and was finally completed in early March 2023. The defects liability period comes to a close on the 6th March 2024.

The restoration and conservation works to the railings completed to this point have been successful. The Courts Service and the Office of Public Works are hoping to advance the next stage of the project as a priority. A design team is to be assembled shortly to apply for the requisite permissions and scope the scale and methodology for the conservation and restoration works to the remaining railings. This will lead to a programme for the advancement of all associated works on site. The project will be further developed in 2024.