asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware of the widespread alarm amongst residents in North Great George's Street, Dublin following the collapse of a building on the 24th June last, and whether he will make a statement on the matter as people living in the North Great George's Street-Mountjoy Street area feel that the method of assessment leading to a building being condemned is not sufficiently thorough with the result that people continue to live in tenements which are potentially dangerous.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Dangerous Buildings.
12.
Mr. O'Leary
I presume that the Deputy is referring to the collapse of the back wall of premises at 34 North Great George's Street during a high wind last Thursday. I understand that, prior to collapse of the wall, the corporation had determined that the premises were unsuitable for occupation and had the roof removed and that, immediately following the incident, the corporation had the adjoining house, No. 33, de-tenanted as a precautionary measure. The corporation have no evidence of widespread alarm amongst other residents in the area.
The general survey of defective buildings in the city, being carried out by corporation staff which has been specially augmented for the purpose, is progressing and immediate action is taken as defective buildings are encountered. The corporation are satisfied that the present arrangements are adequate and, in fact, they have received criticisms that their standards are over-strict.
Mr. O'Leary
I do not know when the last inspector went down to this area and found there was no widespread alarm. I do know there was widespread alarm there last Thursday evening. If the Minister will get some other official to check up what the recent feeling is, he will find it is as I have suggested in this question.
My information is based on that supplied to me by the corporation subsequent to the evening in question.