asked the Minister for Local Government if there are any proposals for the redevelopment of the Benburb Street flats, Dublin; and, if so, if similar consideration will be given to Hollyfield Buildings and other substandard dwelling places.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Redevelopment.
18.
Dublin Corporation's proposal to redevelop two of the six flat blocks at Benburb Street at an estimated cost of £62,500 was approved in June, 1972, and I understand that the work of converting these two blocks into self-contained flats with all modern facilities including heating is in progress. The number of tenancies in the other four blocks has been reduced by about 50 per cent and as further flats become vacant they are being offered to existing tenants as additional accommodation. If not accepted by existing tenants the vacant flats are being closed.
I understand that in Hollyfield Buildings two of the blocks containing one-roomed flats have been demolished and the site has been converted into a play area for the tenants of the remaining flats. The number of tenants in the other two and three-bedroom flats is being reduced and the extra accommodation is being offered to existing tenants.
The position in Mountpleasant Buildings is that two blocks of one-roomed flats have also been demolished to provide a bigger play area for the remaining flats and the number of tenants in these flats is being reduced. The practice of offering the extra accommodation created by the reduction in the number of tenants to existing tenants is also being followed here. While I share the general concern about the conditions in the flats in these areas and have asked the corporation to keep me fully informed of developments I should mention that the management of their estate, including the upkeep of their houses and flats, is primarily a matter for the corporation.