asked the Minister for Health if he will now state whether in pursuance of the promise made by him, the unsightly walls surrounding the former South Dublin Union will be removed at an early date, so that this anachronistic symbol of alien government can be abolished, and the atmosphere which it creates dissipated.
- Dublin Union Wall.
In connection with the scheme for the rehabilitation and extension of St. Kevin's Hospital, I requested the Dublin Board of Assistance to give urgent consideration to the demolition of derelict buildings and walls. The board agreed to do this and, on 25th April last, I approved of a tender for the demolition of a number of old stores and old sheds and a large number of walls and railings which surrounded the various hospital blocks. I approved of a further list of demolitions on 16th August last to be carried out by the contractor. These demolitions have been largely completed. I have asked the board of assistance to consider the demolition of the present high boundary wall between St. Kevin's and the canal bank and its replacement by some form of fence which will not obscure the view. The board have agreed to do this but the work has not yet commenced.
I have recently suggested to the board that a radical alteration in the portion of the institution fronting James's Street should be made with the least possible delay. The provision of an attractive frontage to the hospital will require the demolition of a range of buildings which include the male casual department, the admission unit and offices for staff of board and various stores. The demolition of these buildings will mean that alternative accommodation will have to be found in the hospital. I understand that this matter is receiving attention from the board, who hope to be able to submit proposals in the matter shortly.
Might I ask the Parliamentary Secretary if his Department is going to defray all the costs of these recommendations or are they going to fall on the backs of the Dublin ratepayers?
That is a matter for arrangement between my Department and the board of assistance and is being pursued by them. The arrangements agreed upon up to the present have satisfied the board of assistance.
I have asked a simple question: are all those recommendations of the Minister to be carried out by putting the cost on the rates or is the Department going to pay for them?
That is a separate question.
I am sure the Deputy would join with me in wishing that we should remove this unsightly wall which represents so much that I assume is antipathetic to our personal desires as to the proper conditions under which these people should be hospitalised.
That is the way you want to bring down the rates in Dublin.