asked the Minister for Finance whether, in preparation for their demolition, certain unsound buildings in Dublin Castle had been vacated in 1948 by the Civil Service staffs and whether accommodation for these staffs had been found elsewhere; and, further, whether the staffs in question were subsequently compelled to reoccupy the unsound, unsuitable and unhealthy buildings.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Condition of Buildings in Dublin Castle.
In 1948, certain buildings in the Lower Castle Yard, which it was intended todemolish in connection with the first stage of the proposed reconstruction scheme, were vacated by the occupying personnel for whom alternative accommodation, which they still occupy, was provided. Subsequent to the decision of the then Government that the reconstruction scheme should not be proceeded with, the need arose for the provision of accommodation for other staffs and although, as previously indicated in a reply to another question, none of the buildings referred to could really be described as sound, and although they were unsuitable as permanent premises for Government Departments, it was found necessary, owing to the difficulties of the accommodation position, to have them reoccupied by these staffs. Prior to re-occupation, an appreciable amount of repair and improvement work was carried out at the buildings, and while, as a result, working conditions have been made reasonably comfortable, the basic defects due to age and unsuitability of lay-out remain.
asked the Minister for Finance if he will state the date on which the Coalition Government decided to suspend all work on the preparation of plans for the reconstruction of the unsound, unsuitable, dangerous and unhealthy buildings in Dublin Castle.
The Government decided on 12th November, 1948, that the proposals for the reconstruction of Dublin Castle should not be proceeded with pending further instructions by the Government.