Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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258. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when a reply will issue to correspondence regarding lodges in the Phoenix Park (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42783/24]

Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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I wish to confirm that a response to the Deputy's correspondence will issue shortly.

Lodges like those in the Phoenix Park are considered intrinsic to the historic estates, parks and gardens in the care of the Office of Public Works (OPW) and are retained for State use. A number of these properties are located within secure areas of the Park e.g. Áras and Uachtarain and as such are not accessible to members of the public. These lodges are primarily allocated to staff in a specific post, such as Park Ranger, Deer Keeper, etc. where there is a requirement for officials to be present on the ground as part of their employment.

I am advised by my officials that of the 41 lodges in the Phoenix Park, there are 12 currently vacant primarily due to their poor condition and/or location which makes them unsuitable for modern occupation.

There is an ongoing programme to refurbish a number of lodges on a phased, basis subject to resources.