asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the cause of the delay in sanctioning the appointment of an architect for the proposed building of three blocks of flats in Newfoundland Street, Dublin, and if he is aware that the Dublin Corporation is prepared to undertake this work as soon as the architect is appointed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Delay in Appointment of Architect.
Mr. Byrne
The erection of the blocks of flats proposed would necessitate the demolition of some 40 dwellings, 39 of which have been reconditioned by the corporation within the past two years at a cost of about £20,000. The 40 families so displaced would have to be rehoused, and this would involve the allocation to these families of dwellings which are needed for the rehousing of large families in single rooms and insanitary accommodation. There is difficulty at present in getting tenders for the erection of large blocks of flats. The proposal to appoint an outside architect is under consideration, and I hope to be in a position to give a decision shortly. The Deputy is no doubt aware that in the normal course this work would be undertaken by the corporation housing architect and the technical staff of the corporation's Housing Department, and that the proposal to bring in an outside architect has been put forward on the grounds that the existing staff would be unable to prepare the necessary documents owing to the pressure of other work.
Mr. Byrne
Will the Minister say whether he is likely to give sanction to the appointment of an architect in order to go on with the preliminary work in anticipation of the time when the staffs will be available?
Mr. Murphy
As I indicated in my reply, I hope that a decision may be given in regard to the matter shortly.