(Dublin Central) asked the Minister for Local Government when Dublin Corporation plans to de-tenant Benburb Street flats, Dublin; and if he will outline the overall plans for this area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Corporation Flats.
95.
I understand that Dublin Corporation are proceeding with the de-tenanting of two of their flat-blocks in Benburb Street, but that they are not in a position to say when this process will be completed, because of the practical difficulties involved. The corporation intend to reconstruct these two blocks to provide 36 flats suitable for elderly persons and childless couples.
I am advised that the corporation's overall objectives for the area are to improve the physical state of the accommodation in the buildings to an acceptable level by a reduction of the number of families in residence, and by reconstruction and demolition as necessary, and to improve the social circumstances of the residents by the provision of amenities and by intensive social work.
Would the Minister not consider asking Dublin Corporation, or getting from them first, the cost of construction, and secondly, the cost of demolition and completely rebuilding or, perhaps, selling the site and providing alternative accommodation elsewhere? The cost of reconstructing the existing buildings would be high and it might be completely unsatisfactory to do this. It might not be a feasible proposition. As there is no Dublin Corporation, is there some way of getting the details about this? It might be a ridiculous task to take on the reconstruction of these buildings. Has the Minister seen them himself? I had a look at them yesterday and it might be better and cheaper to demolish them and rebuild. The Minister is interested in this matter and he might look into it. It might be too costly to reconstruct them on the lines suggested by Dublin Corporation and it might be easier to demolish and rebuild.
This matter was examined very fully and decisions were made after taking all the relevant factors into consideration.
Is there any chance of public hearings about these matters so that the public might know the position?
If the Deputy wants more information he should contact Dublin Corporation.
I cannot get satisfaction from Dublin Corporation. When I write to the city manager I get letters back from somebody there but the city manager does not seem to reply. Perhaps the Minister could get me the details.
The Deputy should contact the corporation.
I am asking the Minister to do it because he has total responsibility for Dublin Corporation.
No, the maintenance and administration of the housing estates are the responsibility of the local authority.
But this is ratepayers' money.
I suggest the Deputy should get in touch with the corporation.
I can ask these questions that I have put to the Minister but will the Minister assure me that I shall get a satisfactory reply?