Vol. 399 No. 10
13 Mr. McCartan asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will request CIE to co-operate with Dublin Corporation's plans for the rehousing of those residents displaced from the Sheriff Street area, Dublin 1, by making available for sale at reasonable cost those sites not immediately required but central to the corporation's plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I understand that CIE have had discussions with Dublin Corporation in relation to sites for the rehousing of residents displaced from the Sheriff Street area. I have been informed by the board that they have offered for sale to the corporation a site at reasonable cost which is no longer required by CIE for operational purposes.
Will the Minister indicate the location of that site? The most recent information to the housing committee of Dublin Corporation indicates that there is particular interest in a site known as the Spencer Dock which would provide 85 housing units for the rehousing of Sheriff Street tenants. Is the Minister aware that CIE are refusing to enter negotiations in regard to that site, which is currently derelict, and this is the nub of the question?
I understand that CIE identified a parcel of land beside Spencer Dock, to the north of Spencer Bridge, and that this was offered for sale to the corporation last April.
Is the Minister aware how many housing units that would provide? Is he aware that the position of CIE generally with regard to corporation approaches is one of unreasonableness? Is he also aware that the view is held by CIE that in the future they may have use of land that is derelict and has been derelict for a considerable time?
I cannot respond to the Deputy in regard to the number of houses concerned — I do not have that information with me, but as a result of his question I will ask the board to reconsider their operational requirements as to how many further sites could be released.
While not seeking to tread too heavily on the working of CIE, it would appear that they are taking a somewhat unreasonable attitude, and the Minister's views in the matter might be helpful.
I will ask them to reconsider the matter.
