Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 October 2023
96. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 202 of 20 September 2023, if he will provide an update in respect of the OPWs attempt to make use of the CPO process to acquire lands in the common good. [44541/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commissioners of Public Works have the ability to initiate a compulsory purchase of lands and buildings under the following legislation:
• Barrow Drainage Act 1927 and 1933:
Enacted to make provision for the formulation and maintenance of a scheme of arterial drainage on the River Barrow and its tributaries. Section 7 of the Act empowered the Commissioners to compulsorily acquire lands or rights in lands in connection with a scheme approved by the Minister.
• Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 - 1995:
Enacted to make provision for drainage and improvement of land by the execution of works of arterial drainage.
• Coast Protection Act 1963:
Enacted to make provision for coastal protection and encroachment by the sea in connection with schemes approved by the Minister.
• Garda Síochána (Acquisition of Sites and Retention of Premises) Act 1948:
Enacted to provide for the acquisition, (with the consent of the Ministers for Justice and Finance), of land as a site for a Garda Síochána station or for a house for a member of the Garda Síochána
The OPW does not have the powers to undertake a CPO in this instance as it pertains to the property issues in Castletown House, Celbridge. This could be an option for other State organisations.
