Carol Nolan (Offaly, Independent)
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212. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will address the concerns regarding the ongoing closure since November 2024 of the shop at the Clonmacnoise monastic site; if the shop will not be re-opening; if so, if the OPW has plans in place regarding the shop at the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24948/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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The Office of Public Works (OPW) recognises the importance of providing appropriate retail and catering facilities for visitors to Clonmacnoise and fully appreciates the concerns raised regarding the closure of the shop since November 2024.

As part of a significant investment under the EU Just Transition Fund, the Clonmacnoise Visitor Centre is undergoing a major redevelopment. This transformative project will enhance the visitor experience while also upgrading the facility to modern energy efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility standards. To facilitate these essential improvements, preparatory works are required in specific areas of the site, with full construction scheduled to commence in late 2025.

During this transitional period, the OPW is committed to ensuring continuity of visitor services and has specific interim solutions. In particular, the OPW has issued a public tender for a mobile café to provide high-quality catering on site during the redevelopment. The closing date for receipt of tenders was recently extended to 16 May 2024, to allow for greater market engagement and to secure the most suitable operator. The successful tenderer will be expected to deliver a professional and welcoming service, complementing the heritage setting and enhancing the visitor experience during the works.

In parallel, the former Fáilte Ireland building, previously used for retail purposes, is currently in the process of being transferred to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The building is a crucial as in the short term it will allow OPW provide a continuation of on-site services and a community engagement space during the project development and construction stages.

Looking ahead, the building will be permanently adapted to support long-term visitor and community engagement. Plans include a dedicated education space, a Changing Places facility (a fully accessible restroom), and new interpretive displays to showcase the site’s significance and the broader redevelopment programme.

In the short term, deep cleaning, repainting, and the installation of interpretive materials will commence shortly to ensure the space is fit for public use. While the closure of the shop is regrettable, the OPW assures the public that all efforts are being made to provide alternative, high-quality services throughout the redevelopment period.

Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal West, Sinn Fein)
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213. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will consider active consultation with the broader community in Lusk regarding the reopening of the Lusk Round Tower and Belfry; if, in particular, he will include the Round Tower and Belfry’s keyholder of 35 years (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24992/25]

Kevin Moran (Longford-Westmeath, Independent)
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The Office of Public Works (OPW) acknowledges the historical and cultural importance of the Lusk Round Tower and Belfry and recognises the deep connection the local community has with this significant national monument.

The OPW is committed to working collaboratively with local communities in the care and presentation of Ireland’s built heritage. In this context, the OPW will actively engage with the broader community in Lusk to provide an update on current considerations regarding the site, including any future plans relating to the reopening of the Round Tower and Belfry.

This engagement will include a dedicated meeting in Lusk with local stakeholders and to ensure that the community is kept informed and involved in future plans. The OPW also acknowledges the long-standing contribution of the individual who has served as keyholder at the site for over 35 years and values the unique insights and commitment they bring to the care and promotion of the monument. The OPW will ensure that this individual is included in the planned engagement process.

The continued protection, accessibility, and interpretation of the Lusk Round Tower and Belfry are priorities for the OPW.