asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the major changes that are taking place within the green space surrounding the Custom House in Dublin.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Custom House Green Space.
11.
No permanent changes are taking place within the green space surrounding the Custom House. Part of the grassed area is being used at present by the contractor as a site for offices and storage facilities for plant, equipment and materials while the contract for the stonework restoration is being carried out at the Custom House. Part is also being used for car parking for the duration of the contract. When the stonework contract is completed the grounds affected will be fully restored to their original condition.
Can the Minister tell me why there has been a massive mound of earth in the green area for some time? He said car parking is taking place on a temporary basis, but will he agree that often car parking which is described as temporary has a habit of becoming permanent? This is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city and it is imperative that everything in the area should be preserved. The green space has been a great visual asset. The Minister says temporary work is taking place there but it has been going on for a very long time. Would he ensure that something is done to clear up the area because it is a disgrace to the Office of Public Works and all concerned.
As the Deputy is aware, the top soil has been taken off so that it can be put back when the contract is finished. The contract is for two and half years and work has been taking place over the last eight months.
The Deputy passes it every day.
I pass it very often too. When the contract is finished the position will be reviewed to see what further works need to be carried out. While I agree that we should do everything to protect the amenity around the Custom House, and I will ensure that is done, it is important that we preserve the Custom House and this contract has been placed to preserve the stonework of the Custom House. As I said, the top soil is stored on the site and we want to keep it so that we can properly restore the grounds when the contract is completed.
I am very suspicious of car parking facilities and the Minister said the car parking is being availed of by those working on the scheme. As far as I could see there are 40 to 50 cars parked there are at present. That means there must be a very large workforce. If that is so, the job should have been finished in a matter of months.
The Deputy is aware that the contract is for two and a half years. I will look at the car parking, but I can assure the Deputy the work will be properly carried out.
I am calling the next question.
A Cheann Comhairle——
There is no time. I have been working hard here for the last hour for the Deputy, but I did not succeed.