Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent)
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212. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to provide an update on the current situation regarding restoration works at Durrow Abbey, Durrow, Tullamore, County Offaly; when repairs will be completed; when Durrow Abbey will be opened to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4145/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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Durrow Abbey, Co Offaly is located eight kilometres to the north of Tullamore on the N52 road to Kilbeggan.

Durrow Cross, Church, Graveslabs and Motte, located in the Durrow Demesne, are National Monuments (No. 313 and 678) in the care of the Office of Public Works.

In addition, St Columba's Church is a National Monument in State care and houses the Durrow High Cross and it is presumed that it is to this structure the Deputy refers.

The Church was closed in 2020 due to concerns with the building fabric and the safety of visitors. Investigations and surveys were commissioned in order to inform the necessary conservation and repair works.

It is envisaged that remedial works will be undertaken to the floor and pews by OPW carpenters, joiners and work staff of the Trim District under the direction of OPW conservation architects. As the planning and programming of this project continues, visitors can view the Durrow High Cross from a screen at the Church entrance doors. The OPW understands that this is not satisfactory for visitors, but it is a necessary temporary measure while work is ongoing to the interior of the church.

At this time, it is not possible to give an exact date for the completion of these works but the Deputy can be assured that it is a priority project in 2025 for the District Works Team.