Vol. 515 No. 1
47 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Finance the survey of public buildings, if any, being carried out by the Office of Public Works to establish the level of asbestos in these buildings; the steps, if any, being taken to have asbestos removed from all these buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5275/00]
A detailed survey of all buildings under the control of the Office of Public Works was commenced in 1999 to determine the location, type, form and condition of any asbestos material present and the steps necessary to manage the problem. It is being undertaken by specialist consultants specially engaged for the purpose. Works identified as necessary to deal with asbestos in buildings are carried out on a priority basis.
The survey was later extended to include (a) all primary and post-primary schools, on behalf of the Department of Education and Science; (b) heritage buildings, on behalf of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands and (c) military establishments, on behalf of the Department of Defence.
To date approximately 1,000 buildings have been or are in the course of being surveyed and any necessary works have been completed, are in hand or are in the process of being commissioned.
